The moment in which 'Meet The Parents (2000)' solidifies itself as an exemplary entry in the genre is the very same in which De Niro's tight-lipped, ex-CIA retiree asks his soon-to-be son-in-law a simple, innocuous question: "I have nipples, Greg. Could you milk me?". As soon as the question leaves his lips, it's clear that the movie is completely in control of its eponymous premise. Via a series of awkward interactions, haphazard misunderstandings and just a smidge of slapstick tomfoolery, the piece definitely delivers the goods when it comes to comedy. It's a fun, funny and often frustrating experience that does, essentially, exactly what it needs to. It's good-natured, remaining fairly 'feel good' even when it's putting its likeable protagonist through the wringer. Its cast is compelling and its writing is quite sharp; it's ultimately an enjoyable experience throughout. It isn't especially deep - although it hits its emotional pay-offs rather well and has a fairly major character arc - but it doesn't really need to be. It's a good time. 7/10
Review of Meet the Parents
