(rated PG 13, 107 mins.)
This is a story that gives new meaning to the term “in laws”. Robert DeNiro stars as the father with just enough of his “Cape Fear” intimidating edge to scare his future bumbling beau, son-in-law, Ben Stiller into all types of mishaps and screw-ups. Blythe Danner is excellent as the lovable, somewhat birdbrain, accepting mother (similar to Dianne Wiest in “The Birdcage”). Teri Polo (TV’s Felicity) plays the bride to be although the world revolves around Stiller’s character. There is tremendous tension building/friction as Stiller does his best role-playing in these underdog, foot-in-mouth type scenarios. The casting director should be proud in teaming Stiller and DeNiro who work well in balancing each other out. It’s a sophisticated “There’s Something About Mary” although this time it’s a cat that steals the movie, instead of a bandaged up ankle-chomping dog.
