Paul Feig knows how to make possibly inept comedy, dangerously derivative in the wrong hands, have a heart. Feig is behind one of the best series ever put on television – Freaks and Geeks. It was a show with a flawed and realistic ensemble, and all characters were incredibly lovable. They were characters one would want to be friends with or hangout with. To no surprise, the same applies to Bridesmaids.
This pre-wedding film is the best type of comedy: one with heart, smarts, and something to say. If anyone labels this as a “chick flick” or says “Oh, it’s like The Hangover!” feel free to slap them in face. Bridesmaids is neither of those things. It’s a film that perfectly plays to both men and women.
The ensemble Feig has put together could not work any better. They are all distinct, real, likable women each given their moment to shine. They are not “bitchy” nor are they caricatures. Annie (Kristen Wiig, also credited as co-writer on the film) is lonely. Not only due to the fact she doesn’t have a man in her life, a big cliche the film sidesteps, but because she’s about to lose her best friend, Lillian (Maya Rudolph). Lillian is prepping for marriage and for a move, which Annie thinks strain their close relationship.
Another possible sign of their relationship falling apart: Annie is picked to be the maid of honor, and she doesn’t handle it too well. Nervousness, awkwardness and raunchiness ensues. Everything seems to be going wrong for Annie: her f-buddy Ted (Jon Hamm) isn’t interested in her beyond the obvious bare necessities, she’s lost her bakery which she but her life’s work into and she’s stuck in a rivalry that threatens to ruin her friendship with Lillian.
Helen (Rose Byrne) provides said rivalry. The rich housewife is looking to steal the show and take control of the wedding. Annie and Helen bump heads, and in epic comic fashion. This rivalry is the the only part of the film that comes the closest to being mean-spirited, but Feig knows when to pull back. Both Annie and Helen could have become deplorable through this battle, but their relationship remains grounded and understandable. Annie is intimidated, for the right reasons. And Helen has her reasons that you learn by the end, and that motive adds a real sense of depth to her.
Feig obviously has a good ear for trite comedic characters and plot points, and he even avoids one of the most obvious ones: the douchey non-love interest. Ted does not fit the general bill for this character. He is not smooth, not good in bed, and is boyishly oblivious to his meanness. Hamm makes a classic love-to-hate character. Every line and expression Hamm nails perfectly.
The whole cast hits every beat perfectly. The film never hits a false note. Whenever the film goes raunchy, Feig earns it. Bridesmaids is always grounded and relatable. This is comedy that will be remembered in 20 years, and for good reason.