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It starts and ends with one man proposing to another, and has
even crazier scenes in between. After a recent diet of mediocre
comedies, it is refreshing to see a laugh out loud movie that
has some quality acting and which does not rely entirely on
juvenile and low brow jokes.
Ben Stiller stars as Greg Focker ( a name that predictably
gets plenty of comic mileage throughout), a typical Stiller
character - that is, well meaning but hapless Jewish romantic.
Focker plans to propose to girlfriend Pam (Teri Polo), but before
he can pull off a well organised proposal, she unwittingly tips
him off that it would be wise for him to ask her father first.
This sets up the comic-dramatic tension core of the film which
revolves around Focker's desperate attempts to make a good impression
during a visit to Pam's folks' place. Focker is already a bit
nervous before he arrives, but he falls to pieces completely
in the presence of Pam's Dad, Jack Byrnes (Robert de Niro) who
turns out to be an ex CIA interrogator who believes no man is
good enough for his little girl.
Robert de Niro and Ben Stiller are in great form, de Niro especially
making the most of his existing tough guy image. Teri Polo also
does a fairly good job in the usually thankless role of the
'straight man' in between the comic chaos created by her two
leading men. Surrounding this trio is a colourful array of supporting
acts ranging from Blythe Danner as Pam's picture perfect mother
to Owen Wilson as Pam's hilariously over perfect ex-boyfriend.
Other than the great performances, the main reason why this
movie works is that its fundamental premise is one that strikes
a chord with so many people. Most men have at some time in their
lives been either a nervous boyfriend or an over protective
father (or both), and women will always raise their eyes skyward
at the childish situations that their men manage to get themselves
into.
Director Jay Roach is no stranger to crazy comedies having
been at the helm of both Austin Powers movies, so it is no surprise
that the gags in Meet the Parents hit the mark so often. A classic
example is one all too familiar depiction of Focker's encounter
with some bafflingly daft airport staff.
All in all a very funny film. With very little in the way of
risque humour, this is one to be enjoyed by everyone.
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