We're the Millers is a 2013 comedy-crime film directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber that's as audacious as it is hilarious. Let's embark on a movie journey that spices up the classic road trip story with a twist: a fake family transporting a massive haul of weed. If that doesn't scream 'watch me,' I don't know what does! Welcome to my movie review where we dive deep into why this flick may or may not be worth your popcorn.
The plot hinges around a veteran pot dealer, played by the ever-charming Jason Sudeikis, who concocts a dubious but wildly entertaining plan. He's transporting a hefty shipment of marijuana from Mexico to the United States. But, wait—he decides to create a 'family' to avoid suspicion. Enter Jennifer Aniston, Emma Roberts, and Will Poulter, a ragtag crew pretending to be a wholesome family on a road trip. The movie taps into familiar tropes but spices them with unique elements like quirky antics and side-splitting mishaps. At its core, it's a heist film in disguise—one that knows how to tickle the funny bone.
Now, let's break down the performances and screenplay. Sudeikis is at the top of his game, delivering lines with a casual nonchalance that turns potentially offensive jokes into rolling laughter. Aniston, stepping away from her iconic 'Rachel' persona, surprises with her role as a stripped-down stripper with a heart of gold. Will Poulter steals several scenes with his awkward, well-meaning charm, and Emma Roberts holds her ground amidst her talented co-stars. The film's cinematography doesn't aim for grandeur but complements the comedic vibe well enough. Rawson Marshall Thurber keeps the pace snappy, although the screenplay by Bob Fisher, Steve Faber, and Sean Anders sometimes relies a bit too much on crude humor. It’s a minor gripe for a film that's meant to entertain.
If we're going to compare We're the Millers to its comedic peers, think along the lines of Horrible Bosses or The Hangover. While it may not reach the comedic heights of these genre titans, it holds its own with unique charm. This isn't a cinematic masterpiece, but it nestles comfortably amongst the ‘best comedy films’ for a fun night in. With its crime undertone, it shares DNA with heist comedies like , albeit with much lower stakes.
Here's the bottom line: If you're craving a light-hearted escape with bursts of laughter and some outrageous moments, We're the Millers delivers the goods. Special shoutout to a funny little tarantula scene—ouch! This isn't the movie that will redefine cinema, but it's a reminder that films don’t always have to be profound to be enjoyable. Think of it as the cinematic equivalent of a guilty pleasure eat at McDonald's: not great for you, but sometimes exactly what you need.
Do yourself a favor: grab your favorite snack, suspend disbelief, and enjoy the ride with the Millers. After all, life's too short not to indulge in some silly, carefree humor now and then. If you love the comedy genre, this movie is a must-watch! You might just join the legion of fans who keep coming back for another round of laughs.