(Written by Intern, Sean Barry)
The best kinds of bonds are those between old friends. After sharing a lifetime together, one knows exactly how to bring their bestie joy, and conversely, how to anger them beyond belief. The Fabulous Four examines a testy relationship between two diverse opposites when reunited under surprising circumstances. Despite boasting an impressive cast including Bette Midler, Susan Sarandon, Megan Mullally, and Sheryl Lee Ralph as the titular quartet, underdeveloped characterization imbues rocky dialogue undeserving of their profound talent. Not even the leading ladies’ charm and star power can save a run-of-the-mill storyline lacking much realism.
Mere months after the death of her husband, John, Marilyn (Bette Midler) quickly becomes engaged to a new man. She invites her old roommates, Alice (Megan Mullally) and Kitty (Sheryl Lee Ralph), to Key West for the wedding, but leaves out her best friend, Lou (Susan Sarandon), assuming she wouldn’t respond if asked. Past romantic entanglements leave behind a near irreparable rift between Lou and Marilyn. Luckily, Alice and Kitty trick Lou into attending in an attempt to sneakily reconcile the pair. While Marilyn, Alice, and Kitty thoroughly enjoy the bachelorette weekend, Lou is cold and unforgiving. Each time it seems like she starts opening up, another unlucky circumstance spoils her mood.
Issues often arise from an effort to stretch a thin plot out over a hundred minute runtime. Scenes run too long or feel entirely unnecessary. On the flight, Lou is unhappily stuck between a group of rowdy twenty-somethings. Nothing of great substance occurs during their exchange; it feels as if it solely exists to show how out of touch Lou is with society. Despite taking place in a well populated area, the bridesmaids continuously run into the young trio. Apart from being an occasional audience for stories of Marilyn’s past, they add little to the story, and disappear entirely before the climax.
Sarandon’s performance stands out with moments of heart and a discernible arc. Her shy flirtations with Ted (Bruce Greenwood) and Captain Ernie (Timothy V. Murphy) are enjoyable as she breaks out of her bitter shell. However, these instances are only noticeable because of the absurd way characters act otherwise. Alice is written as a problematic caricature always looking for a new drug trip or sexual conquest. Although Marilyn is likely in her 70s, she regularly behaves like a child, throwing mini tantrums and prioritizing her own interests at the expense of others. A prevalent theme to forgive and forget may be a deeply effective message, but feels nearly exploitative when applied to these particularly rushed events. Lou has been holding a grudge against Marilyn for over four decades, and in one conversation with Ted, he tells her to simply get over it, and she listens. Further internal conflict or failed attempts to make up would have created far more intrigue. Even if not particularly groundbreaking, director Jocelyn Moorhouse’s latest effort remains a mildly entertaining watch for the suburb casting alone.
Will The Fabulous Four ever return to their original glory? Find out when it releases to theaters on Friday, July 26th.
