Kristen Wiig, my favorite performer on Saturday Night Live, finally gets a film vehicle to showcase her tremendous talent. Bridesmaids is the story of two best friends whose lives are going in opposite directions. Wiig stars as Annie, a failed bakery owner languishing in poverty and love. Maya Rudolph, another unheralded SNL alumni, co-stars as Lillian, her childhood best friend who is about to marry the man of her dreams. Annie’s failures are compounded by the introduction of Helen (Rose Byrne), a beautiful and wealthy newcomer who is desperate for friendship. Helen is on a mission to steal Lillian away from Annie. Bridesmaids is an infectiously funny and bittersweet look at how life can change even the strongest of friendships.
I’ll be frank. Bridesmaids is knockdown, drag out funny. I expected a few chuckles, but there are some scenes that will have you falling out of your chair. Wiig and Rudolph are experts in improvisation from their years doing live comedy. They are in the zone here. Wiig’s script is really all about putting these characters in seemingly regular situations, and then throwing in a curveball that allows them to run with it to glory. The ladies attempt to get fitted for their dresses, only to have one of the most comical and disgusting predicaments to befall any person happen to all of them. I think this scene in particular will be remembered as a classic.
The female perspective is another great accomplishment. It could have been sappy and a snoozer, but is given greath depth and feeling. Women in traditonal male buddy comedies are usually sex objects, bad foils, or heroines. Annie’s character takes those stereotypes, and puts a face on all of them. She’s being used for sex by a male chauvinist pig, but desperately wants his affection. Helen is besting her at every wedding event. And even though she’s the hero, she has to be reminded about what a hero actually does. Character development is not something I was expecting to see. Credit Wiig’s script for having Annie’s personal journey front and center.
Bridesmaids is the best comedy of the year so far. I have high hopes for The Hangover 2, but the girls are the reigning champs until proven otherwise. Kristen Wiig’s star will skyrocket after this one. I’ve always thought she was a better talent than most of the leading actors she’s supported in her film and TV career. Universal will be laughing to the bank this weekend, a must see in the theater.
