Parental Guidance

Parental Guidance is a family-centric comedy film that was released in 2012. The film boasts a talented ensemble cast with playfully vivacious performances from Billy Crystal, Bette Midler, and Marisa Tomei. Directed by Andy Fickman, this lighthearted rom-com explores the classic clash of parenting ideologies with a humorous sexual twist, making it a delightful watch for movie enthusiasts of all age groups.

At the heart of Parental Guidance is Artie Decker (Billy Crystal), a well-meaning grandfather who becomes mechanically outdated with time, and his wife Diane (Bette Midler), a lively, warm-hearted grandmother. Artie and Diane are blissfully retired, living their life comfortably until they're called up for grandparent duty while their overprotective daughter Alice (Marisa Tomei) and her tech-savvy husband Phil (Tom Everett Scott) embark on a trip.

With Alice and Phil’s departure, the grandparents are left to manage three willful grandkids using their traditional "old school" childcare methods. The film astutely presents the generational divide by delving into the comedic differences in child-raising practices before and now. From dealing with a shy violin prodigy, Harper (Bailee Madison), to keeping up with the maverick Turner (Joshua Rush) and the adorable Barker (Kyle Harrison Breitkopf), Artie and Diane’s world is full of hilarity and heartwarming interactions.

Artie's character arc resonates with anyone who has ever felt out of place in an increasingly digital world. Billy Crystal delivers a charming performance, infusing Artie with an underlying vulnerability beneath his quick wit and grandiose jokes. Bette Midler, as Diane, reminisces about the joy of parenthood and brings an infectious enthusiasm that makes you root for her immediately. Marisa Tomei elegantly portrays Alice, the typical modern mom caught between her set of rules and the more lax approach of her parents. The chemistry between the actors is fantastic and aids in turning an ordinary storyline into an engaging movie.

Andy Fickman brings his signature unpretentious style to Parental Guidance, which makes the movie easy and engaging, depicting real-life scenarios that most families can relate to. The film largely succeeds in its intent without turning preachy about what is the right way to parent children. Instead, it celebrates the differences with humor and sensitivity.

The clash of generations is visually represented through the contrasting production designs. Visual storytelling is employed strategically where Alice's "smart" house, controlled by technology, is a standout. The idea of a futuristic home that caters to every whim, from toilet training kids to mediates marital fights, adds a humorous undernote that underlines the script's wit.

The script by Lisa Addario and Joe Syracuse holds a mirror to today's parenting styles, juxtaposing it effectively with the pragmatic approach of an older generation. Balanced with well-timed comedic beats, heartwarming family moments, some slapstick humor, and gentle societal critiques, it leaves viewers with food for thought.

Marc Shaiman's score and Dean Semler's cinematography lend a certain graphical narrative prompt that shows the loving chaos of family life in all its alto-relievo. The light piano pieces of the score go hand in hand with the bright palette cinematography, creating an almost idyllic backdrop that perfectly sets the tone for this family comedy.

However, Parental Guidance isn't just about the laughs. Amidst the comedy, it houses heartfelt moments that will resonate with audiences, gently reminding us about the importance of family and adaptability to change. It paints a picture of the struggles of bridging the generation gap and the beautiful journey of realizing that love and understanding are what truly matters in a family.

On the whole, Parental Guidance is an enjoyable family film. It warmly invites the viewer into the world of the Deckers, sharing their highs and lows, laughs and cries, ultimately leaving them with broadly painted smiles and a heart full of love. Whether it's for a light-hearted family movie night or just a dose of simple, clean humor, Parental Guidance can be a worthy choice. Although set in a typical family situation, it transcends being a generic comedy film and inspires conversations about the evolution of parenting practices, making it worthwhile viewing not just for laughs but for its unexpectedly thoughtful subject matter.