A Hilarious Fish-Out-of-Water Romp

Dust off your fanny packs and slap on some sunscreen, because we’re taking a trip back to 1993 with Steve Rash’s “Son in Law.” This comedic gem throws us headfirst into the hilarious culture clash between a free-spirited California surfer dude and a conservative Midwestern family. While critical reception might be a mixed bag, “Son in Law” offers a side-splitting escape with a surprising amount of heart, solidifying its place as a cult classic for many.

A Classic Fish-Out-of-Water Tale with a Twist

The story follows Rebecca (Carla Gugino), a small-town girl who undergoes a radical transformation during her first year at college. Gone is the shy farm girl who braided her own hair; in her place is a trendsetting young woman with a taste for adventure and a newfound love for brightly coloured scrunchies. When she returns home for Thanksgiving break, Rebecca throws a wrench into her family’s traditional plans by introducing them to her “fiancé,” Crawl (Pauly Shore), a flamboyant and endlessly quotable party animal. Think ripped jeans, long, greasy hair, and a vocabulary that revolves around “dudes” and “righteous.” Hilarity ensues as Crawl attempts to navigate the unfamiliar territory of Rebecca’s family farm, their traditional Thanksgiving celebration, and, most importantly, the judgmental gaze of her bewildered parents.

From Beach Bum to Midwestern Misfit: Pauly Shore Takes Centre Stage

Pauly Shore’s portrayal of Crawl is the undeniable centrepiece of “Son in Law.” Love him or hate him, Shore’s signature brand of goofy humour and surfer slang is on full display. He throws himself wholeheartedly into the role, delivering a performance that’s equal parts cringe-worthy and laugh-out-loud funny. While some critics found Crawl grating and his antics one-note, others appreciated the subversive take on the classic “fish-out-of-water” trope. It’s worth noting that “Son in Law” was actually Shore’s highest-grossing film at the box office, raking in a cool $41 million USD against an $8 million USD budget. This success speaks volumes about Shore’s comedic appeal, even if it wasn’t universally acclaimed.

Surprising Heart and Supporting Gems: A Recipe for Success

Despite the focus on Shore’s comedic antics, “Son in Law” has an unexpected emotional core. Rebecca’s journey of self-discovery, her desire to break free from the confines of her small town, and the eventual acceptance from her family resonate deeply with audiences. The script, while light on plot, manages to weave in genuine moments of tenderness that elevate the film beyond pure slapstick.

The supporting cast is also a delight. Lane Smith and Cindy Pickett shine as Rebecca’s bewildered but ultimately supportive parents. Smith perfectly captures the exasperation of a Midwestern father confronted with his daughter’s eccentric new beau, while Pickett delivers a heartwarming portrayal of a mother who just wants her daughter to be happy. Patrick Renna, then a child actor, steals scenes as the mischievous younger brother who takes an instant liking to Crawl’s unconventional ways. A fun fact for trivia buffs: Brendan Fraser, fresh off his success in “Encino Man,” even makes a cameo appearance as a fraternity brother, adding a touch of nostalgia for fans of early 90s comedies.

Critical Reception: A Mixed Bag, But a Hit with Audiences

As mentioned earlier, critical reception for “Son in Law” was divided. Some reviewers found the humour juvenile and the characters one-dimensional, criticising the film for relying on cheap gags and slapstick humour. Others felt the portrayal of the Midwestern family bordered on caricature. However, audiences seemed to disagree, with many finding the film a hilarious and heartwarming escape. This disconnect highlights the subjective nature of comedy, and the film’s enduring popularity on streaming platforms and late-night reruns speaks volumes about its ability to entertain.

Final Verdict: A Hilarious Escape with a Touch of Heart

“Son in Law” isn’t aiming for highbrow humour, but it delivers laughs and a surprisingly sweet message. Shore’s portrayal might be divisive, but the supporting cast shines. Packed with 90s nostalgia and a touch of social commentary, this film offers a hilarious escape for those seeking pure entertainment.