What happens when you mix a dysfunctional family reunion, a haunted house, and a 400-year-old poltergeist? You get The Parenting, Max's upcoming horror-comedy that promises to deliver equal parts laughs and chills. With a star-studded cast including Brian Cox, Lisa Kudrow, and Parker Posey, this film is shaping up to be a must-watch for fans of both screwball comedies and supernatural thrillers. But does it live up to the hype? Let's dive in.
The Plot:
The story centers on Rohan (Nik Dodani) and Josh (Brandon Flynn), a young couple trying to navigate the ultimate test of their relationship: introducing their parents. Sharon (Edie Falco) and Frank (Brian Cox) are the traditional, no-nonsense types, while Liddy (Lisa Kudrow) and Cliff (Dean Norris) are the laid-back, free-spirited counterparts. Throw in an eccentric property manager, Brenda (Parker Posey), and a meddling best friend, Sara (Vivian Bang), and you've got a recipe for chaos. But when the family discovers their rental is haunted by a centuries-old poltergeist, the real fun begins.
The Cast:
The ensemble cast is a major highlight. Brian Cox, fresh off his Succession dominance, brings his signature gravitas to the role of Frank, while Lisa Kudrow's comedic timing as Liddy is as sharp as ever. Edie Falco and Dean Norris add depth to their roles, and Parker Posey steals scenes as the quirky Brenda. Nik Dodani and Brandon Flynn anchor the film with their relatable chemistry, making the chaos feel grounded.
The Tone:
Director Craig Johnson (The Skeleton Twins) strikes a delicate balance between humor and horror. The film's trailer hints at a playful tone, with slapstick moments and witty one-liners, but there's also a genuine sense of dread as the poltergeist's presence grows. Screenwriter Kent Sublette (Saturday Night Live) infuses the script with sharp dialogue and clever twists, ensuring the story never feels predictable.
Release and Expectations:
Set to premiere on March 13, The Parenting is poised to be a standout in Max's 2024 lineup. With its unique blend of genres and a cast that's firing on all cylinders, it's a film that could appeal to a wide audience. Whether you're in it for the laughs, the scares, or the stellar performances, this one's worth marking on your calendar.
The Parenting looks like a wild ride, blending family dysfunction with supernatural hijinks in a way that feels fresh and entertaining. The cast alone is reason enough to tune in, but the film's clever premise and sharp writing elevate it beyond a typical genre mashup. While the trailer suggests a heavy reliance on comedy, I'm curious to see how the horror elements are woven into the story. Will it strike the right balance, or will one genre overshadow the other? Either way, this is one family reunion you won't want to miss.
What's your favorite horror-comedy? Do you think The Parenting has what it takes to join the ranks of classics like Ghostbusters or Beetlejuice?
