Release date: 6 September 2013 (South Africa)
Genre: Comedy/Crime
Director: Rawson Marshall Thurber
Cinematographer: Barry Peterson
Budget: $50 million USD
Box office: $270 million USD

 

“You know what I’m sayin’? Well, I’m awake and I speak English, so yeah, I know what you’re sayin’.” – David Clark (played by Jason Sudeikis)

 

7 MIN Read Time

 

A Road Trip of Laughs and Unexpected Bonds: A Look at “We’re the Millers”

If you’re looking for a comedy that delivers side-splitting laughs alongside a surprisingly heartwarming story, then “We’re the Millers” is a perfect choice. Directed by Rawson Marshall Thurber, this 2013 film hits the sweet spot between laugh-out-loud moments and a quirky sense of found family. 

 

The Plot Thickens South of the Border

The story centres around David (Jason Sudeikis), a small-time pot dealer down on his luck. In a desperate attempt to repay a debt to a menacing supplier (played by Ed Helms in a hilariously unhinged cameo), David hatches a wild plan: smuggle a large quantity of marijuana across the US-Mexico border disguised within a tricked-out RV. But how to avoid suspicion? David cooks up a hilarious scheme – he’ll create a fake family to act as his cover. 

Enter Rose (Jennifer Aniston), a gorgeous stripper with a quick wit and a need for a fresh start. David convinces her to pose as his ex-wife, offering a hefty sum to sweeten the deal. Their initial meeting is a riot, with Rose’s sassy personality clashing perfectly with David’s nervous energy. Rounding out the Miller family are Kenny (Will Poulter), a socially awkward teenager yearning for a connection, and Casey (Emma Roberts), a runaway with a rebellious streak. 

This unlikely quartet sets off on a road trip south of the border, their rickety RV christened “The Millennium Falcon” in a nod to David’s love of Star Wars. As they navigate the dusty landscapes and quirky border towns of Mexico, chaos inevitably ensues.

 

From Fake Family to Found Family

The brilliance of “We’re the Millers” lies in how it transcends the typical road trip comedy. Sure, there are laugh-out-loud moments – Kenny’s awkward attempts to fit in with his “new family,” a hilariously disastrous encounter with a tarantula, and David’s constant struggle to maintain the facade of a happy family man, complete with matching Hawaiian shirts. But beneath the wackiness, a genuine connection begins to form between the Millers. 

David, initially driven by self-interest, starts to see the value of family, albeit a wholly unconventional one. He finds himself unexpectedly invested in Kenny’s well-being, offering him guidance and a sense of belonging the teenager has craved. Rose sheds her jaded exterior and discovers a maternal instinct she never knew she possessed. Kenny blossoms under the unexpected acceptance he finds in the Millers, his quirky personality adding a layer of sweetness to the group dynamic. Casey learns the importance of trust and loyalty, finding a sense of camaraderie with the unlikely family unit.

 

The Stakes Get Higher

The film doesn’t shy away from throwing some curveballs at the Millers. They find themselves entangled with a dangerous drug cartel leader, played with menacing brilliance by Joaquin Cosio. This throws their carefully crafted plan into disarray. Escapades with corrupt officials, wild animals, and the ever-present threat of exposure keep the tension high, adding a layer of suspense to the comedic journey. The film cleverly uses these situations to further develop the characters. David’s resourcefulness and quick thinking are put to the test, while Rose’s street smarts prove invaluable. Kenny’s knowledge of obscure trivia comes in surprisingly handy, and Casey’s rebellious streak takes on a new meaning as she helps the family out of sticky situations.

 

Heartwarming and Hilarious: A Winning Combination

“We’re the Millers” is a film that will leave you with a smile on your face. It’s a testament to the power of finding family, reminding us that connection and love can blossom in the most unexpected places. While the situations the Millers find themselves in are undeniably ridiculous, the characters’ growth and the bonds they forge feel genuine. The film avoids sentimentality, instead opting for a heartwarming portrayal of a dysfunctional family unit finding solace and support in each other. 

The film’s success rests heavily on the shoulders of its talented cast. Sudeikis delivers a charmingly roguish performance as David, perfectly capturing his desperation and comedic timing. Aniston shines as Rose, showcasing her range as she goes from glamorous stripper to a surprisingly nurturing (and hilariously inappropriate) pseudo-mom. Poulter and Roberts are scene-stealers, bringing a youthful energy and relatable awkwardness to their roles. Their comedic timing is impeccable, and their chemistry with Sudeikis and Aniston is undeniable. 

“We’re the Millers” isn’t perfect. The plot occasionally stretches credibility, and some gags might feel a tad predictable. But these minor shortcomings are easily overshadowed by the film’s heart and humor. It’s a hilarious and heartwarming ride that will leave you wanting more Miller family adventures.  You might even find yourself missing their dysfunctional yet strangely endearing dynamic. The film’s soundtrack also deserves a mention. It’s a perfect blend of upbeat pop hits and classic rock anthems that perfectly complements the road trip vibe and adds another layer of humour to certain scenes.

 

Beyond the Laughs: A Look at Social Commentary

While “We’re the Millers” is primarily a comedy, it also manages to weave in some subtle social commentary. The film takes a lighthearted jab at the increasingly blurred lines between reality and social media personas. David’s initial motivation for creating the fake family stems from a desire to project a perfect image online, showcasing a manufactured happiness that couldn’t be further from his reality.  

There’s also a hint of commentary on the complexities of family dynamics. The Millers, though entirely fabricated, start to function as a unit in a way that David’s own fractured family never did. It’s a reminder that families come in all shapes and sizes, and that love and acceptance can be found in the most unexpected places.

 

A Lasting Impression

“We’re the Millers” is a film that stays with you long after the credits roll. It’s a hilarious and heartwarming reminder that sometimes the greatest adventures are found in the most unconventional journeys. Whether you’re looking for laugh-out-loud moments, a heartwarming story about found family, or a touch of social commentary, this film has something to offer everyone. So, gather your own motley crew, pack your metaphorical RV, and get ready for a wild ride with the Millers.

 

My Rating: 8/10

 

Trailer: