‘The Fabulous Four’ Review: Susan Sarandon and Bette Midler Play Estranged Besties in a Comedy That Veers Between Flimsy and Sharp

As a huge fan of women-centric films that explore the complexities and joys of friendship, I was both excited and apprehensive about “The Fabulous Four.” And let me tell you, this movie did not disappoint! The chemistry between Susan Sarandon, Bette Midler, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and Megan Mullally is electric. Their real-life experience shines through every scene, making their characters feel authentic and relatable.

Women with achievements under their belts and a certain maturity about them are currently the stars of a popular movie trend. In these films, they embark on amusing escapades together, often in groups of three or four. The newest addition to this subgenre is “The Fabulous Four,” which offers a lighthearted take on their theme of friendship and emotional release. While it may not deliver on every promise, it avoids the pitfall of overstating these elements.

Despite the feature’s limitations, its title doesn’t misrepresent the truth; there’s nothing ordinary about the main quartet of friends who reunite when one of them suddenly decides to get married. Similar to “Book Club,” the excitement primarily stems from the actors – two legendary stars (Susan Sarandon and Bette Midler), and two skilled comedians (Sheryl Lee Ralph and Megan Mullally). The opening credits pay tribute to each of these captivating women.

As a big fan of Director Jocelyn Moorhouse’s work, I’ve always been impressed by her ability to assemble strong female casts, resulting in some truly memorable films like “How to Make an American Quilt” and “The Dressmaker.” In this latest project, she takes a step back and lets her stars take center stage. While the beginning is engaging, it’s only during the final half-hour that the story really comes alive. The Shakespearean element of mistaken identity, which had been lurking subtly in the background, is brilliantly brought to light in an expertly crafted sequence. Kudos to Roberto Schaefer for the stunning cinematography. However, I must admit that some parts of the film rely too heavily on humor based on TikTok and THC gummies, which might not resonate with everyone as effectively as intended.

During a sun-soaked wedding weekend in Key West, the story centers on Marilyn, played by Midler, who is eagerly getting married again, just a few short months following the passing of her longtime husband of 48 years. In other words, she’s preparing for her second nuptials under sunny skies, not long after losing her spouse of half a century.

Kitty (Ralph), the botanist turned cannabis edibles entrepreneur, and Alice (Mullally), the rock singer who admires Kitty’s products, have an unusual plan. They aim to invite heart surgeon Lou (Sarandon) to Florida for a celebration, as Marilyn desperately wants her there. However, it’s been decades since Marilyn last spoke with Kitty and Alice, following an unfortunate incident where Marilyn dated Lou’s former boyfriend. The long-lasting consequences of their past actions add complexity to the situation.

I’m a huge fan of Hemingway and cats, so when I heard about winning a six-toed cat from his museum, I couldn’t contain my excitement. My friends and I set off on a trip south to claim my new pet. Little did I know, it was all a trick. The moment we arrived at Marilyn’s luxurious waterfront house, the ruse was exposed.

Prepare for the pre-wedding activities filled with drinking, partying, and parasailing. Marilyn’s fiancé deliberately avoids joining in to respect the girls’ weekend. Amidst this, awkward moments and tense silences occur between Marilyn and Lou, with Lou reluctantly attending but keeping her distance. During these events, Lou encounters two charming men: Ted, the bar owner who is a skilled flirt (played by Bruce Greenwood), and Ernie, the thoughtful ship captain who quotes Hemingway (Timothy V. Murphy). Sarandon brilliantly portrays Lou’s embarrassed and self-conscious reactions to their attention, particularly from Ted.

As a gamer, I’d say this: The movie doesn’t shame singles like some others do. In fact, Ralph’s character, who isn’t on the hunt for love, delivers a powerful line about the resilience of single women. She says it casually, in the heat of the moment, making its impact even more profound.

In a lesser-explored storyline, Kitty’s rigid daughter Leslie, played by Brandee Evans, pushes for her mother to move into a church-affiliated nursing home. Simultaneously, an unexpected figure emerges as both women’s acquaintance – an energetic male stripper, portrayed by Kadan Well Bennett. Alice, who embodies an unapologetic zest for life and desire, continues her quest for companionship with younger men. Mullally’s captivating singing voice adds charm to the character, but her renowned status as a successful recording artist, acknowledged by Michael Bolton himself, is overshadowed. Instead, it’s Mullally’s brilliant comedic performance that shines through, along with her exceptional chemistry with Ralph and the skillful editing by Gabriella Muir that enhances their interplay.

In a delightful turn of events, the trio of young adults, Renika Williams, David Goren, and Abigail Dolan, who are part of the Greek chorus in this story, support Lou enthusiastically on TikTok and in person as their adventures intersect with hers on the Florida island.

As a fan, I’ve noticed that Midler’s portrayal of Marilyn in the movie is puzzling at times. She comes across as rather ditzy and enigmatic, which can make for an intriguing performance but also leaves it feeling somewhat aimless at moments. It’s quite unusual that Marilyn’s fixation on TikTok, constantly recording and sharing her extravagant life, is more unsettling to Alice and Kitty than the news of her sudden engagement to someone she’s only known for a short time. In the climax, when Marilyn experiences a breakdown that’s both personal and public, the rationale behind her frantic, hollow behavior becomes clear – it all makes perfect sense. And subtly, the script acknowledges the unexpectedness of Marilyn’s marriage plans without making a big deal out of it.

Marie Schley’s costumes subtly convey deep contrasts between Marilyn’s glamorous, affluent style and Lou’s practical, self-reliant appearance. The film explores the tension between these two women, who are vastly different in their outlooks on life and relationships. As they navigate their differences and eventually reconcile, the story includes some humorous moments, such as a reference to “Kegel balls,” and others that may not entirely succeed. Nonetheless, The Fabulous Four attempts to move beyond typical formulas and manages to deliver impactful scenes.

2024-07-24 18:25

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