MovieFreak.com - "The In-Laws" DVD Review by John Teves

DVD REVIEW

In-Laws, The (2003)

Starring: Michael Douglas, Albert Brooks

Director: Andrew Fleming

Rating: PG-13

Distributor: Warner Home Video

Release Date: October 7, 2003
Review posted: October 23, 2003

Spoilers: None

Reviewed by John Teves

Synopsis

In this "re-imagining" of the comedy classic, daredevil secret agent and father of the groom Steve Tobias (Douglas) gives conservative podiatrist and father of the bride Jerry Peyser (Brooks) a bad case of prenuptial jitters when they finally meet. The two men, who are soon to be matched as opposite fathers-in-law, become entangled in a secret adventure that takes them to South America just before the big wedding.

Critique

It's no doubt that fans of the original THE IN-LAWS (1979) may be disheartened by this glossier, action-packed version, but the brisker pacing and showy shoot-'em-up scenes are exactly what will appeal to the film's target audience of this century.

THE IN-LAWS is a synthetic replacement for an improved action/spy/comedy. Brooks' character becomes very annoying after awhile and the film seems somewhat flat during the meeting of the in-laws, however Douglas' character creates a spark that makes the film worth while; just watch how Douglas can be a loving father one minute and a killer the next. It's completely entertaining.

THE IN-LAWS may not be the best action/spy/comedy out there, but it’s a fairly charming diversion. Fans of such films will probably take pleasure in this film and should give it a look.

The Video

THE IN-LAWS is presented in an aspect ratio of 1.85:1; the image has been enhanced for 16X9 televisions. The picture demonstrated a pretty solid presentation. Sharpness looked superior. The video image remained crisp and detailed throughout the film, and I detected no signs of softness. I didn’t notice any edge enhancement or jagged edges during the presentation. Print flaws seemed absent, though I detected a few signs of grit and speckles during the wider camera shots. Colors were perfect coming across vibrant and distinct, with no signs of defects. Black levels were reasonably deep and dense, and shadow detail looked appropriately heavy but not excessively thick. Overall the video transfer presented a stellar presentation that made this film an enjoyable presentation.

The Audio

THE IN-LAWS is presented in a Dolby Digital 5.1 track. For the most part the immeasurable bulk of the film was focused on dialogue. The front surrounds contained an ample amount of directional effects considering this is a dialogue driven film. The rears jumped into action from time to time creating a wide-ranging ambience. Dialogue was fine, sounding natural and distinct. Effects were clear and realistic, while the score sounded smooth and bright. Overall, the track boasted a solid dynamic range and packed a decent punch when necessary.

The Extras

Commentary by director Andrew Fleming
Theatrical trailer(s)
Jump Feet First Into A Hilarious Gag Reel
Zany Additional Scenes
Multiple Takes of Riotous Sequences with Albert Brooks

Overall

If this genre doesn’t appeal to you, then there’s nothing fresh here to fascinate you. The film is clever, engaging and just straightforward movie entertainment, so you won't feel bad giving up 98 minutes of your time. Enjoy it.

John Teves rates the film 3 out of 4.

Review originally appeared on DVDFreak.net

VERDICT: RECOMMENDED

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