Bridesmaids (2011, Dir. Paul Fieg)

In a climate in which most 'romantic comedies' of the past 20 years involve a basic plot line about women feeling lonely and empty inside until they are ‘completed’ by the finding of a nonchalant man, this film is about friendships and interaction between female personalities, and was nothing short of a breath of fresh air. With classic comedies like Billy Wilder's 'The Apartment' (1960) as genuine cinematic greats, contrasting with modern day 'The Ugly Truth' through which women and men conform to the most brutal of stereotypes; ‘Bridesmaids’ was an utter contrast to most modern romantic efforts and moments were quite simply comedy gold.

With fantastic reviews coming from many acclaimed critics (Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian, & co.) it is understandable that many are excited to see the film, written by and staring Kristen Wiig. It is a film written by women, for women; but many men in the audience succeed in howling with laughter just as much as all females in attendance. Much in the same way that ‘The Hangover’ surprised viewers worldwide with its imaginative story and actual wit, ‘Bridesmaids’ (although marketed to appeal to the audience of run-of-the-mill modern rom-coms) did just this. As spectators howl with laughter throughout its duration, the film provides a genuinely funny social commentary on 'real' characters and individuals for which you develop genuine emotional connection to.

With an all-star cast from Maya Rudolph, to ‘Gilmore Girls'’ lesser known Melissa McCarthy, with a small egotistical character cameo portrayed by ‘Mad Men's’ Jon Hamm; the cast are all spectacular. All characters are unique, often very ordinary and are utterly believable; a far cry from the state of most modern ‘rom-coms’.

Commonly, with modern film you can ask yourself three questions: Do more than three women feature throughout the film's duration? Do these women have names? And when they are together, do they talk about anything other than men? Hollywood ensures that normally, the answer always remains a 'no'. In ‘Bridesmaids’, men rarely feature as any dominant character and the film defies rules commonly found in modern day Hollywood with relation to portrayal of women.

A gut-wrenchingly funny adventure, the film follows six women's journey from their friend's engagement to the big day. Women that aren't afraid to be ridiculously silly and have a genuinely good time, the social commentary inherent in such a film is impeccable. Real women, real problems, real humour and a really funny journey; this film is a genuinely great comedy and should be seen by all who like to laugh.