Bridesmaids

Release Date: May 13, 2011

Runtime: 2 hr. 5 min. 

Director: Paul Feig 

Cast: Kristen Wiig, Maya Rudolph, Rose Byrne, Melissa McCarthy, Wendi McLendon-Covey.

Take five, radically different women, add ballsy humor, and you get “Bridesmaids”—the female answer to all male-driven comedies in recent years. SNL alum Kristin Wiig is a comedic force to be reckoned with, playing Annie, the reluctant maid of honor at her best friend’s wedding. Unlucky in love and bitter at life, she attempts to complete the coveted task at hand—if, she doesn’t lose her sanity first. Always one to steal the spotlight in supporting roles, Wiig finally receives the break she deserves, as she ascends from television fame to movie stardom. A master at improv and slapstick humor, her defining moment is liken to Steve Carell in “The 40-Year-Old-Virgin.” Rounding out the rest of the bridal party is a talented group of actresses that go against the grain of stereotypical chick flicks. Melissa McCarthy, especially, proves that you don’t have to be a pretty face to get the attention. Rated R and unfeigned, “Bridesmaids” takes the humorous route to what goes down before the pivotal aisle walk. But unlike the similarly conceived “Hangover,” the film presents a solid character study that feels pragmatic, despite the chaos and tirades. Even as the tables turn on the protagonist, you can’t help but appreciate the fact that she’s the bad guy, and that’s a good thing. Though the story starts to feel cumbersome halfway through, the ending doles out enough sentiments to counter the more cringe-inducing moments. By the starring power of Wiig and her bridal posse, the raised bar now seems to be in full effect. The guys in Bangkok will have some catching up to do.

Rating: 4 stars