Susan Sarandon is making headlines with her latest film, “The Fabulous Four,” where she not only stars alongside Bette Midler, Sheryl Lee Ralph, and Megan Mullally but also brings her beloved cats into the mix. The film, which premiered on July 25, 2024, showcases a comedic take on midlife friendships and the complexities that come with them.
In a recent interview, Sarandon and Ralph shared their experiences while filming in Savannah, Georgia. Ralph humorously noted that the best part of the shoot was the food, while Sarandon emphasized the fun and respect shared among the cast. Sarandon’s decision to include her cats in the film was a heartfelt one, as she expressed her desire to give them a chance to shine on screen. Ralph jokingly referred to this as “nepotism,” highlighting the playful camaraderie between the two actresses.
“The Fabulous Four” revolves around the reunion of old friends, but it quickly becomes apparent that the film struggles to deliver the depth and humor one might expect from such a talented ensemble. Directed by Jocelyn Moorhouse, the film attempts to blend comedy with emotional moments, but often falls short, relying on superficial jokes and predictable plotlines.
In the film, Sarandon plays Lou, a career-driven heart surgeon who is reluctantly drawn back into the life of her estranged best friend, Marilyn, portrayed by Midler. The tension between Lou and Marilyn stems from a long-standing grudge over a past romantic entanglement, which adds a layer of complexity to their reunion. However, the film fails to explore this conflict in a meaningful way, leaving viewers wanting more depth and insight into the characters’ motivations.
As the story unfolds, Lou is tricked into attending Marilyn’s wedding, where she is reunited with Alice and Kitty, played by Mullally and Ralph, respectively. The film’s attempts at humor often feel forced, with cheap gags and recycled ideas that fail to resonate. While the chemistry among the actresses is palpable, the screenplay does not provide them with the material they need to truly shine.
One of the film’s central themes is the exploration of friendship and forgiveness, particularly between Lou and Marilyn. However, the narrative’s handling of this conflict is inconsistent, leaving viewers confused about the characters’ true feelings. At times, the film seems to side with Lou, criticizing Marilyn for her past actions, only to later suggest that Lou should let go of her resentment. This lack of clarity undermines the emotional stakes of the story.
Despite its shortcomings, Sarandon’s performance stands out as she brings a sense of vulnerability to Lou. Her character’s journey from a lonely, hard-working surgeon to someone who begins to embrace life again is one of the film’s few redeeming qualities. The budding romance between Lou and a local bar owner, played by Bruce Greenwood, adds a touch of warmth to the narrative, showcasing Sarandon’s ability to convey genuine emotion.
As the film progresses, it becomes evident that the comedic elements are not as effective as intended. The reliance on clichés and predictable scenarios detracts from the overall experience. For instance, the introduction of Kitty as a successful cannabis farmer leads to expected comedic moments that fail to deliver the intended laughs. The film’s attempts at outrageous humor, reminiscent of “Bridesmaids,” often fall flat, lacking the cleverness and charm that made similar films successful.
Ultimately, “The Fabulous Four” presents a missed opportunity to explore the complexities of friendship and the challenges of midlife. While the film features a talented cast, the screenplay does not do justice to their abilities. The result is a comedy that feels more like a missed chance at something truly fabulous.
As the film hits theaters, it faces competition from major blockbusters, which may impact its box office performance. However, the presence of Sarandon, Midler, Ralph, and Mullally may attract older audiences looking for a different cinematic experience. The film’s small-screen prospects may be more promising, as it could find a more appreciative audience in the comfort of home.
In conclusion, “The Fabulous Four” is a film that showcases the talents of its leading ladies but ultimately falls short of its potential. With a lackluster script and missed opportunities for deeper storytelling, the film serves as a reminder of the importance of strong material in bringing out the best in even the most talented actors. As Sarandon’s cats make their debut alongside her, one can only hope that future projects will allow these actresses to truly be fabulous.
Source: Extra, Bleecker Street
