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The Proposal (2009)
Directed by Anne Fletcher
Written by Peter Chiarelli
Starring: Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds, Mary Steenburgen, Craig T. Nelson, Betty White
Margaret Tate (Bullock) is a domineering boss in need of a spouse. In order to keep her visa, Margaret forces her assistant Andrew (Reynolds) to marry her. Now they’re navigating tricky waters as she gets to know his family.
This is a romantic comedy written by Peter Chiarelli (Now You See Me: The Second Act) and directed by Anne Fletcher (The Guilt Trip). Released in 2009, this one stars Sandra Bullock (While You Were Sleeping) and Ryan Reynolds (The Croods). The film also features Mary Steenburgen (What’s Eating Gilbert Grape), Craig T. Nelson (The Incredibles), and Betty White (Bringing Down the House).
This is a somewhat formulaic story that works thanks to the charm built into the characters. While the story has been told before, this does some new things with the concept. The characters are definitely the strength of the writing. Bullock’s role is written with strength and vulnerability that show in the right moments and keep things interesting. Reynolds’ character is also nicely written, slowly revealing itself as more complex throughout the film. The dialogue in the film is nicely written, and features some fun moments. The rest of the characters are a wacky bunch of misfits that bring some fun into the film. The bulk of the story works nicely, but sometimes feels a bit too predictable. Had the writers taken a bit more liberty with the formula this might have been a great film. As it is, this is an enjoyable movie that entertains but doesn’t do anything new.
The acting in this movie is good, with flashes of great mixed in. The great moments comes from the seemingly natural chemistry between Bullock and Reynolds. the comedic timing between the two helps to keep this one fun. Individually they also do nice work in this one. Another bright spot in the film is the performance by the great Betty White. She knows how to make comedy work. This time she’s in a role that is just off-center enough to be weird and funny all at once. The rest of the cast also does nice work with their roles in this one. The material doesn’t ask for much from the smaller roles, but it’s still nicely acted all the way around.
This is a fun romantic comedy that works pretty nicely. Fans of Bullock, Reynolds, and the rest of the cast should check this one out. I would also suggest this to fans of romantic comedies. It’s not going to do anything surprisingly, but it’s a fun story that won’t disappoint. I give this one 3.3 out of 5 stars.
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