Movie Review: License to Wed
by Dylan Quinnell
When you walk into a cinema late and you are the only one in the auditorium, you have to wonder what kind of movie you are in for.
Admittedly, a few audience members did arrive for the screening of Robin Williams’ new flick Licensed to Wed, but the fact that they could be counted on one hand wasn’t a good sign.
Licensed to Wed is Williams’ first leading role in a film since the disastrous RV, and although it appears that he’s lost none of his comedic potency, his latest role as an unconventional priest won’t be the comeback he’s hoping for.
The film’s basic storyline follows newly engaged couple Ben (John Krasinski) and Sadie (Mandy Moore) as they journey through an unconventional pre-marriage course designed by Father Frank, played by Williams.
The eccentric priest’s pre-marriage course provides an interesting set up for the film. The young couple are put through a variety of challenges including a verbal fight club, a ban from having sex, and a trip to a maternity ward.
The film seems very reliant on the humour we have come to expect from Robin Williams. But in some instances, his character is too reliant on being the funny guy; and as a result the film suffers.
However, the creepy robotic twins who Ben and Sadie are assigned to look after add some extra hilarity; especially when one of the babies gets punch drunk during the credits.
Moore and Krasinski perform well in the film, but their characters seem underdeveloped and rely largely on gender stereotypes.
Robin Williams has his funny moments, but his performance here seems like something straight out of Mrs Doubtfire. And with a script laden with corny lines such as: “So, Ben, what do you do - besides little Sadie?” , the stakes are not high for this film.
Licensed to Wed is a slightly disappointing product from director Ken Kwapis, whose past endeavours include About a Boy, episodes of The Office and Malcom in the Middle. However, production-wise, the film is fairly good.
To be fair, Licensed to Wed will provide a few laughs if you are a fan of romantic comedies and classic Robin Williams.
Overall rating: 5/10
License to Wed
Director: Ken Kwapis
Cast: Robin Williams, Mandy Moore, John Krasinski, Eric Christian Olsen, Christine Taylor
Romantic Comedy, M
Reviewed by Dylan Quinnell & Todd Symons