Ticket to the Movies: ‘Father of the Bride’ overcomes stereotypes to be endearing

A promotional still photograph from the movie “Father of the Bride.”

Welcome back to my blog. Here’s my recommendation of a movie to check out today and hope you punch your “Ticket to the Movies!” OK, for today, let’s revisit a wonderful comedy that doesn’t get bogged down by its many stereotypes: “Father of the Bride” with Steve Martin. The wonderful work by Martin and most of the rest of the cast elevates this one through it’s endearing scenes.

A promotional still photograph from the movie “Father of the Bride.”
A promotional still photograph from the movie “Father of the Bride.”

“Father of the Bride” should have wilted with the stereotypes of a father overwhelmed when his daughter announces she’s getting married, but the worst thing of all the cast had to overcome is that Martin and his family are too perfect: They’re always dressed well; their house is spotless at all times; they each display little emotion and the family motto should be just the word “milquetoast;” and conflict is treated as if it’s an infection.

Sigh. So, no family is that perfect.

A promotional still photograph from the movie “Father of the Bride.”
A promotional still photograph from the movie “Father of the Bride.”

However, “Father of the Bride” rises above what would have ruined other efforts because Martin is both believable and funny as the stressed-out father of the bride; the bride, played by Kimberly Williams (now Kimberly Williams-Paisley), knocks off her effort with aplomb; and most of the rest of the cast is efficient.

A promotional still photograph from the movie “Father of the Bride.”

The most over-the-top character in “Father of the Bride” is “Franck” played to perfection by Martin Short. He’s the wedding planner with an accent and is a pure joy to watch in each scene. You’re always hoping he’ll show up so you can laugh even deeper.

As for the plot of “Father of the Bride,” Martin battles his way though watching “America’s Most Wanted” to see if he can spot his son-in-law-to-be (remember the film was released in 1991); survives going to jail after a meltdown over hot dog buns at a supermarket; and ultimately saves the day when he patches up things when the inevitable fracture happens between bride-to-be and groom-to-be.

So, I say punch your “Ticket to the Movies!” and watch “Father of the Bride,” which can be found on Disney+ and available for rent on other services. Find it! Watch it! Don’t worry, you’ll thank me later.

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