Charles Shyer (1941–2024)

A brilliantly made light-hearted film with Steve Martin in the title role, Diane Keaton as his wife, and Kimberly Williams as their daughter. It's a remake of a much older film which I saw a long time ago, but I enjoyed this version very much both times I've seen it.

The bulk of the story involves the wedding preparation, which becomes more and more elaborate and increasingly expensive - organised by the strange but talented 'Franck' (Martin Short).

Lots of humour, much of it due to show more expressions and body language with brilliant timing. But there's also quite a poignant thread underlying, as the 'father of the bride' bemoans his daughter growing up so fast and moving out.

Highly recommended if you like romantic comedies with the emphasis on the comedy, and want a light evening's relaxation.

Longer review here: https://suesdvdreviews.blogspot.com/2021/06/father-of-bride-steve-martin.html show less

A very enjoyable romantic comedy, made all the better by Steve Martin's superb sense of comic timing, and his expressive face. He plays the hapless George, concerned about the passing of time, and as ever deeply concerned with all his family members. Diane Keaton is a great foil to him as his wife Nina.

Good pace, some laugh-aloud moments, and some poignancy too, particularly to those of us who are empty nesters and/or long-distance grandparents. Best to be seen after the first 'Father of show more the Bride' film.

Longer review here: https://suesdvdreviews.blogspot.com/2021/07/father-of-bride-ii-steve-martin.html show less

Jude Law's Alfie, much like Michael Caine's Alfie in the 1966 original, is what you'd call an unrepentant womanizer. He beds 'em but never weds 'em, and New York provides ample opportunity to continue the process--until reality slaps him in the face. Because Jude Law is, well, Jude Law, you can see why he gets away with it as long as he does, and the actor also pulls off the usually awkward trick of narrating directly to the camera. Neither his Alfie, however, nor director Charles Shyer's show more remake emerges completely without scratches. Law has a Chesire Cat carnality, but he emanates too much intellect to buy him as the relatively dim bulb he's supposed to be. The film, meanwhile, is a bit soft around the edges; the whole thing would have more resonance if it wasn't quite so intent on watching the unrepentant repent. Regardless, it's a surprisingly thoughtful diversion, and there's fine work from Marisa Tomei, Nia Long, and Susan Sarandon as the women who understandably make Alfie reconsider his ways.--Steve Wiecking show less

Love is wonderful. Until it happens to your only daughter.
With his oldest daughter's wedding approaching, a father finds himself reluctant to let go.
Rated PG for a few inappropriate comments