Another classic entry being “Pretty Woman,” which brought us Julia Roberts – the star of 1997’s “My Best Friend’s Wedding.” The title sums up the plot, though I must admit, the film didn’t play out how I expected.
Julianne Potter (Julia Roberts) is a New York City food critic, introduced in a funny restaurant sequence. Julianne discovers that Michael (Dermot Mulroney,) her best friend and secret love interest, is now engaged. Julianne sets off for Chicago to win Michael back – whatever the cost.
Unexpected Twist
What I thought going into the viewing was that Julia Roberts would be jealous of a female best friend who was getting married instead of her That the character would obviously fall in love with someone along the way, and bells would subsequently toll.
I liked the gender reversals. Normally, it’s the guy who secretly pines after his female best friend. The switch was refreshing, though, it’s a bit of a stretch to think Julia Roberts would not only be single but wrapped up in a friend from college. But whatever, it’s a movie.
The problem with the script is that Julianne is an unlikeable character. She meets Michael’s fiancé, Kimmy (Cameron Diaz) who is perfectly sweet and charming. Kimmy wants to fit in with her beau’s BFF, which is understandable. “I have four days to make you my new best friend!” She exclaims upon meeting Julianne, who immediately gets to work sabotaging the relationship. It would work if the humor was more slapstick, but it’s not. The methods Julianne uses are cruel and frankly, unforgiving.
Great Cast
The love triangle is cast fine, with each of the performers doing their best with what they have to work with. It’s no one’s fault that the story is ripe with deficiencies. Growing up in the 90s, I was never a huge Julia Roberts fan, but here I fell in love. I’ll be checking out more of her filmography from the past. The fourth billed star is Rupert Everett, who plays Julianne’s gay best friend. as George Downes, Julianne’s gay friend and offers the bulk of the comical moments.
It’s 1997, and the scenes are long. The pacing is slow, especially since the laughs sort of die off along the journey. I did, however, appreciate the ending, which I obviously won’t spoil.
February is perfect to curl up with a romcom. “My Best Friend’s Wedding” is fine if you haven’t seen it. But the 90s have many better offerings.
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