Rebel Wilson has long been one of Australia’s most beloved comedic exports, and with her latest film, Bride Hard, she’s taking on a new persona: a full-throttle action star.
Bride Hard is a loving, if chaotic, tribute to the action genre, with an irresistible premise that’s an obvious and hilarious take on the classic Die Hard formula.
Wilson stars as Sam, a world-class secret agent but a terrible maid of honor. After blowing off bridal duties for an international spy mission, she’s demoted to bridesmaid at her former best friend’s wedding.
However, she soon gets a chance at redemption when armed mercenaries crash the ceremony, forcing Sam to take down the bad guys in a blaze of glory.
The film mines the comedic gold of this setup: a high-stakes hostage situation unfolding against the petty, ridiculous drama of a wedding party.
The action sequences, directed by veteran Simon West, are surprisingly effective and at times gory, with Wilson’s character using everything from floral arrangements and candles to champagne bottles as improvised weapons. Yes, it’s all a bit silly but that’s half the fun.
She is a resourceful and genuinely badass heroine, and seeing her in full-throttle action mode is a genuine highlight.
The film also benefits from a talented supporting cast, including a charming Anna Camp, whose dynamic with Wilson forms the film’s emotional core.
Wilson is clearly in her element, delivering one-liners and physical gags with a confident swagger. Her co-stars, however decent they might be at the emotional side of the film, often don’t grab the opportunities for a quick laugh with so many missed comedy moments and poorly delivered quips.
It makes you wonder if these actors are simply not good at improvising, the script didn’t allow for it, or if the director didn’t hit the mark. Either way it left us wanting more from this talented team.
Bride Hard is a loud, unashamedly fun ride that knows exactly what it is.
It’s a comedic homage that doesn’t reinvent the wheel but has no interest in doing so. It’s a good time and easy watch, and for Rebel Wilson, it marks a thrilling new chapter, proving she has the chops to be a credible action star alongside her comedic talents.
For an audience in Melbourne, it was a chance to cheer on a local hero taking on the world, and a wedding from hell, with a grin and a handful of guns.
– The Plus Ones
