Top critical review
3.0 out of 5 starsA Heartfelt Attempt with a Few Missed Steps
Reviewed in the United States on September 10, 2023
"Eighty for Brady" boasts an impressive cast featuring the legendary talents of Lily Tomlin, Jane Fonda, Rita Moreno, and Sally Field, all under the direction of Kyle Marvin. While the film has its moments, it falls short of achieving its full potential, resulting in a three-star review.
On the positive side, the performances of these iconic actresses are undoubtedly a highlight. Tomlin, Fonda, Moreno, and Field bring their A-game, infusing their characters with charm and authenticity. Their chemistry and camaraderie on screen are palpable and make for some genuinely heartwarming moments.
The film's premise, centered around a group of lifelong friends navigating the complexities of their 80s, is both relatable and poignant. It touches on themes of friendship, aging, and the challenges that come with it, making it easy for the audience to connect with the characters and their struggles.
However, "Eighty for Brady" has pacing issues and a somewhat disjointed narrative. Sometimes, the story feels rushed, and specific plot points could be more developed, leaving the viewer wanting more depth and exploration. The transitions between different subplots could have been smoother, as they occasionally disoriented me.
Additionally, the film's humor sometimes hits the mark. While there are some genuinely funny moments, there are also instances where the jokes fall flat, and the humor seems forced. This inconsistency in comedic timing detracts from the overall enjoyment of the movie.
Kyle Marvin's direction, while competent, doesn't particularly stand out. The film needs a distinctive visual style or directorial signature, which, given the caliber of the cast, feels like a missed opportunity to create a more memorable cinematic experience.
In conclusion, "Eighty for Brady" is a well-intentioned film with a stellar ensemble cast that delivers strong performances. However, it needs to improve with pacing, uneven humor, and a lack of directorial flair. It's worth a watch for fans of the leading actresses, but it falls short of becoming a classic in the genre.