 Here’s a tip for when you’re watching “Bridesmaids.” As much fun as the leads are in the movie, this is the sort of comedy where there are unexpected returns that come from paying close attention to everything happening in the background of the movie as well.
In particular, keep your eyes on Wendi McLendon-Covey and Ellie Kemper, two very funny women who take supporting roles in the film as an opportunity to suggest this whole other movie happening just off-screen. I love that sort of thing, and this is a lovely example of it. And in addition to being subtle and expertly defined, it helps that their storyline is totally deranged.
Little surprise, really.Â
If you’re familiar with McLendon-Covey’s work from “Reno 911,” you know how blisteringly filthy and delightfully strange her character work can be, and I’m glad to see her in this kind of high-profile role. I missed her in the last couple of seasons of the show.
Most audiences know Ellie Kemper as Erin on “The Office,” and she’s certainly grown into that role in some weird and endearing ways. I first saw her in “Mystery Team,” where she’s only onscreen for a few minutes but still manages to make a strong impression.
The two of them carve out some really crazy territory in the film, so sitting down with them together seemed fitting, and they couldn’t have been more engaging. I’m curious to see what sort of bounce all of these performers get coming out of this film, and I have a feeling everyone’s going to get more work than they know what to do with.Â
You can read my review for the film from the SXSWÂ Film Festival here.
“Bridesmaids” opens in theaters everywhere this Friday.