1991’s Father of the Bride is a remake of a 1950 classic starring Spencer Tracy, Joan Bennett and a youthful Elizabeth Taylor. Although the newer version isn’t well done as the original it is well worth the cost of rental for a rainy Saturday.
In this version, Steve Martin plays the title character; a man being dragged (along with his checkbook) through ever growing wedding plans for his only daughter. Encounters with the inlaws to be, the predictable pre-wedding fight between the bride and groom and the wedding preparations are mild compared to the wedding day mishaps. Martin plays the role well- confused at the preparations and at the same time melancholy as he watches his little girl slip away. Diane Keaton plays the serene mother and Kimberley Williams the 18 year old bride. Martin Short steals many a scene as an out of control wedding planner.(there are times when his character is a little too over the top) There is much more visual and physical humor than in the original. But the sweet family tale still comes through.
Both versions of Father of the Bride had sequels. The original was called Father’s Little Dividend and the 90’s Version Father of the Bride II. In each, it is a year or so later and the young couple are trying to start a family. The Father becomes more dazed when not only his daughter but his wife end up expecting.
For some easy innocent entertainment rent Father of the Bride. Better still watch for the original 1950 version on the classic movie channel.