The Family Stone

B-

This movie certainly wasn't like the previews. There were some funny moments interspersed, especially towards the end, but this isn't the light family comedy it is portrayed to be. They took a simple set up of a favored son bringing his girlfriend home to meet the family and gave us this incredibly uptight and insecure person in Sarah Jessica Parker's character being preyed upon instantly by a vicious family that instantly decides she isn't right for the son. Parker is likable, but primarily because she is such a victim and receives so little support from even her own boyfriend.

Still, other than their penchant for attacking meek girlfriends, the family is very likable with all the standard stereotypes. A liberal northeastern family, pothead son, successful but overwrought son, and the gay son. As soon as you find out Parker has a sister that is coming, you know everything that will happen.

Still it is enjoyable and the performances are much better than the writing deserves. Sarah Jessica Parker has a challenging and large role and pulled it off quite well, playing her character in a very realistic manner no matter what is asked of her. She could have come off as comically shrill, but she avoided that.

I'll give it a B-

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