Reese Witherspoon and Will Ferrell are set to light up screens in a new chaotic comedy, premiering on Prime Video from tomorrow (January 30).
The Hollywood A-listers return to their comedic roots in You’re Cordially Invited, a film brimming with outrageous humour, wild antics, and some seriously awkward dance moves.
In this laugh-out-loud romp, Ferrell’s character Jim clashes with Witherspoon’s Margot over a double-booked wedding venue, leading to an all-out war reminiscent of early 2000s hit comedies.
Despite the star power, critics haven’t been kind to the film, with many pointing out its cringe-worthy moments and lack of originality.
A particularly harsh review from The Wrap reads: “When it’s over, you’ll either instantly forget it or wonder why you’ve got such a sour taste in your mouth…
“Amazon could have a quick hit on its hands, purely because it’s a comedy with two beloved stars during a quiet period. That said, while Stoller’s script does boast a few solid laughs, everyone involved deserves and can do better.”
Critics have been left underwhelmed by the latest comedy flick, with Celia Weston’s portrayal of Flora, Margot’s mother, being a rare highlight. The Wrap noted: “[She] gives us award-worthy work in a movie that sets brides on fire and asks us to sit through cast members endlessly mugging to Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers’ Islands in the Stream during the credits.”
Screen Rant’s critic expressed disappointment, saying “You’re Cordially Invited made me cringe way more than I laughed.”
They continued: “It’s clear Stoller is aiming to be daring by escalating every conflict, but at a certain point it only becomes exhausting.
“Jim and Margot are relentless in their scheming, and though Ferrell and Witherspoon certainly commit to the silliness, you almost wish you were there with them so you could tell them to ease up.”
Collider chimed in, branding the film a “forgettable affair” and lamenting the lacklustre execution of the ‘enemies-to-lovers’ angle between Ferrell and Witherspoon: “Unfortunately, the heat never rises above room temperature.
“Although Witherspoon and Ferrell have both found chemistry with other scene-partners in the past, their stars do not align here.”
One favourable review on Cracked championed the film, though, insisting it exceeded the low expectations set by its trailers. “I had a great time watching a film that was almost entirely unrecognisable from its representation in its promotional materials,” they argued.
“I am here to tell you You’re Cordially Invited has been done SO dirty by its marketing team that I’m legitimately kind of mad about it.
“Look, I also saw the alligator. I get that you think I’m crazy. But try to overcome your entirely justified prejudice and you will probably have a good time.”
Will you be giving it a go this week to decide for yourself?
You’re Cordially Invited will be released on Thursday, 30th January on Prime Video.