Today’s quick review: The In-Laws. Dr. Jerry Peyser (Albert Brooks), an uptight podiatrist, has his hands full preparing for his daughter’s wedding when he finally meets the father of the groom: Steven Tobias (Michael Douglas), a spontaneous man who claims to be a deep cover CIA agent. Due to a string of accidents, Jerry gets roped into Steven’s latest mission, brokering a deal with an international smuggler (David Suchet) for a stolen nuclear submarine.
The In-Laws is a spy comedy about a risk-averse doctor who’s dragged into the world of espionage when his daughter marries the son of a spy. The movie pairs Albert Brooks and Michael Douglas as two complete opposites who have to work together to complete a dangerous mission, stay ahead of the FBI, and make sure the wedding goes off without a hitch. The In-Laws features an interesting premise and a decent plot, but its actual comedy is a mixed bag.
The In-Laws does better in the broad strokes than in the particulars. Michael Douglas and Albert Brooks are cast reasonably well, with Douglas as a charismatic but unreliable spy and Brooks as his nervous, unwitting partner. The story focuses primarily on Steven’s mission, but it saves room for some wedding jitters and a touch of action. The bulk of the humor comes from Jerry being thrust into situations he’s unprepared for, with the expected results.
However, The In-Laws doesn’t have the delicate touch needed to make the most of its premise. The comedy consistently aims for low-hanging fruit, opting for obvious, accessible gags rather than anything deadpan or subtle. Neither Jerry nor Steven is likable enough to give the film much heart; Jerry in particular is more of a walking punchline than a full character. The spy side of the world works well enough, but it’s neither original nor clever.
Watch The In-Laws when you’re in the mood for some breezy, popcorn comedy and aren’t too concerned about imperfections. The In-Laws does not have the skill it needs to follow through on its comedic setup, and its lowbrow humor won’t appeal to everyone. But those looking for a quick, simple romp may want to give it a shot.
For a more skillful, deadpan take on the same premise, try the original version of The In-Laws. For a crime comedy with a similar premise, try The Whole Nine Yards. For a spy comedy that dabbles in similar territory, try The Man from U.N.C.L.E. or Get Smart.
5.7 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 6.0 to 6.5 for decent comedy that’s lacking finesse.