Children of the Bride

Children of the Bride from 1990 is an engaging family comedy-drama directed by Jonathan Sanger and featuring a versatile cast led by the delightful Rue McClanahan. The film tackles complex themes of love, age, and family dynamics with sensitivity, humor, and a lot of heart.

The narrative revolves around Margret Becker, portrayed impeccably by The Golden Girls' Rue McClanahan. Margaret is a middle-aged woman who owns and operates a small hotel in a friendly neighborhood. While she enjoys her independence and the fruits of her labor, Margaret also harbors a long-term desire to remarry. She yearns for companionship, and she finally feels ready to embrace the chance at love again after experiencing widowhood for more than two decades.

Entering her life is John Hutton, a charming and good-humored man, played by Ted Shackelford, renowned for his role in the hit serial "Knots Landing." John, who is significantly younger than Margaret, awakens in her the spark of youthful love, laughter, and spontaneity that had been dormant for a long time. John’s affable nature helps him to win over Margaret's heart, proposing to her after a short courtship, a prospect that would make most women blissful. However, when it comes to Margaret, things do not pan out as expected.

On one side, we see Margaret, ready for this new chapter of her life, but she must face an unexpected obstacle – her three grown children. Kristy McNichol plays Mary, the eldest daughter who is married and has a family of her own then we have Jack Coleman plays Dennis, the middle child who takes life more seriously, and finally, Anne Bobby plays the youngest, Lulu, an aspiring actress whose life is in flux.

They are all grown-ups dealing with their personal issues but loves their mother dearly. As the plot unfolds, the children find it hard to embrace the idea of their mother remarrying, especially to a man younger than themselves. What ensues is a classic tale of reluctance, disapproval, humor, evolving relationships, and the struggle to accept change.

One of the significant aspects of Children of the Bride is its ability to delve into the harsh realities of life in a light-hearted way. The film impeccably represents the role-reversal situation that often happens in families when parents grow old – the children, out of concern and love, unintentionally start behaving as parents towards their parents.

Through Margaret, the movie renders a beautiful portrayal of a woman cherishing her newfound love while standing her ground against her children’s resistance. She continues to navigate her path, determining to find happiness and purpose in this new phase of her life.

While the movie is full of hilarious situations, it also possesses moments that are immensely touching. The dynamic between the Mother and her children, dealing with life's vicissitudes and changes in family structure, is beautifully illustrated. It explores the complexities of family love and relationships, individual dreams, and the timelessness of love.

The movie's remarkable ensemble cast delivers sterling performances, complemented by a strong narrative and direction. Rue McClanahan is exceptional in her portrayal of a loving, yet firm, mother who refuses to let circumstances hinder her pursuit of personal happiness. Kristy McNichol, Jack Coleman, and Anne Bobby also impressively portray their characters – each epitomizing a different aspect of the average grown-up child forced to adjust to their parent’s unexpected life choices.

Shot with warmth and humor, Children of the Bride is an enjoyable and thought-provoking watch that wraps its profound message in laughter and a few tears. This 1990 movie intelligently addresses matters that we often sweep under the rug, making it a must-watch for all those who love in-depth family drama sprinkled with humor and insight on the human relationships.