Will Ferrell and Reese Witherspoon's latest comedy, "You're Cordially Invited," has hit streaming services, but critics aren't rolling out the red carpet. Directed by Nicholas Stoller, known for his previous successes like "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" and "Neighbors," this rom-com offers viewers the promise of laughter and love. Yet, many have found it more akin to the awkward wedding reception than the joyous celebration it aims to depict.
Setting the stage for the film is Jim (Ferrell), who is the quintessential devoted dad. After the loss of his wife, he has poured all his love and attention on his daughter, Jenni (Geraldine Viswanathan). When Jenni surprises him with news of her engagement to her college sweetheart Oliver (Stony Blyden), Jim, determined to make her wedding special, quickly decides to book the same scenic wedding venue where he married his late wife.
On the flip side, we meet Margot (Witherspoon), a high-powered reality TV producer who is also planning her sister Neve's (Meredith Hagner) wedding at the same coveted spot. Margot, estranged from her eccentric Southern family except for her sister, is determined to make Neve's wedding perfect, unaware of Jim’s parallel plans.
The film kicks off on the quaint coastal island where the wedding venue is located. Through what can only be described as unfortunate miscommunication, both weddings are double-booked for the same date, leading to chaos and comedic warfare as the two families clash. Jim and Margot's paths inevitably cross, sparking conflict and competition between the two parties, peppered with slapstick antics and cringe-worthy moments.
Critics have been vocal about the film's shortcomings. Described as "a bizarrely off-kilter affair" (USA TODAY), the film feels like it wants to be both heartwarming and hilariously absurd but often stumbles between the two. Ferrell, typically known for his zany charm and humor, seems miscast as his character veers too close to unlikeable. "Jim tends toward the unlikable – with Jenni a smidge more tolerable," remarks one critic, illustrating the disconnect between Ferrell's usual affable performance and this specific role.
The chemistry between the leads, another key element of romantic comedies, is said to falter as well. "Ferrell and Witherspoon don’t jibe as friends or foes, which makes strange narrative decisions even more head-scratching," notes another review. This issue is compounded by supporting characters who seem to inject more life and comedy than the main duo, such as Margot's scene-stealing older sister, played by Leanne Morgan.
Despite the mixed reception, some critics have acknowledged moments of brilliance. For example, the comedic relief provided by the supporting cast, including Jimmy Tatro’s role as Neve’s groom and Jack McBrayer as the inn manager, has garnered praise. Their antics at least provide some laughs amid the tension between the lead characters.
Stoller, the director, has been criticized for his handling of expected wedding comedy clichés without any fresh twists. Much has been said about the predictable tropes present throughout, from weather-related disasters to embarrassing misunderstandings. "Layer upon layer of wedding-disaster clichés (complete with a trashed cake)," laments one critic, highlighting how tired the formula has become.
Some reviews express disappointment over the film's missed opportunities to satirize modern weddings. There are fleeting moments where the film hints at social commentary—particularly on the extravagance of destination weddings but fails to deliver on these themes. Instead, what emerges is more of the same slapstick humor expected from later-career Ferrell films, which does not resonate with the audience.
Adding to the criticism is the film's portrayal of the younger generation. Jim's daughter Jenni is painted as overly dramatic, reinforcing stereotypes about modern youth's perceived sensibilities, leading to eye-rolling moments for older viewers. The film walks the line of satire and just ends up reinforcing clichés without any actual critique or depth, disappointing many who expected a more nuanced interpretation of family dynamics.
So, what's the verdict on "You're Cordially Invited"? While it does offer some laugh-out-loud moments, the film's comedic intent often feels forced. The performances from with Witherspoon and Ferrell are commendable, yet their immense star power cannot lift the film from its formulaic constraints. It appears destined to sit among Ferrell's less memorable outings rather than the beloved titles of his past.
Currently streaming on Prime Video, "You're Cordially Invited" might still appeal to fans who enjoy wedding comedies but is not likely to become the classic it aspired to be. For viewers seeking depth and originality, its predictable plot and tired tropes may prompt them to keep browsing for something more intriguing.