Cast
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Matthew Perry
as Alex Whitman
Salma Hayek Pinault
as Isabel Fuentes
Jon Tenney
as Jeff
Carlos Gómez
as Chuy
Tomas Milian
as Tomas Fuentes
Siobhan Fallon Hogan
as Lanie
John Bennett Perry
as Richard Whitman
Stanley DeSantis
as Judd Marshall
Suzanne Snyder
as Cathy Stewart
Anne Betancourt
as Amalia
Jill Clayburgh
as Nan Whitman
Angelina Torres
as Great Grandma
Debby Shively
as Donna
Mark Adair-Rios
as Juan Fuentes
Annie Combs
as Lisa Barnes
Crew
Director
- Andy Tennant
Producer
- Doug Draizin
Reviews
Wuchak
Amusing romcom in the Vegas area with Salma Hayek and Matthew Perry
RELEASED IN 1997 and directed by Andy Tennant, "Fools Rush In” is a romantic dramedy about a casual night of passion between a successful New Yorker (Matthew Perry) and a Mexican immigrant (Salma Hayek), but they learn that love is more than a Vegas marriage & an Elvis impersonator when dealing with conflicting families and traditions.
This is a generally amusing “chick flick” focusing on Gringo/Latino relations, albeit formulaic. Some jokes fall flat, but they’re well intended. Perry makes for a likable male protagonist while Salma Hayek is winsome in her physical prime; and Suzanne Snyder in secondary role is nothing to sneeze at. Meanwhile Jon Tenney appears as the protagonist’s best friend. The Las Vegas area locations are picturesque.
THE MOVIE RUNS 1 hour, 49 minutes and was shot in Nevada/Arizona (Las Vegas, Henderson, Hoover Dam, Lake Mead and Grand Canyon) and Rancho de las Golondrinas, New Mexico (standing in for central Mexico).
GRADE: B-/C+
Jun 15, 2018
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Fools Rush In examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Andy Tennant brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1997, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Fools Rush In took approximately 36 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $20.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 109 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 155 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 5 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1997, when this film was released:
- The internet was beginning to transform communication and information access.
- Digital technology was transforming the entertainment industry.
- Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.
How This Film Stands Out
While Fools Rush In shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike In Good Company, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Fools Rush In subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Time to Leave and Two Weeks Notice explore similar territory, Fools Rush In stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: February 14, 1997
- Runtime: 1h 49m
- Budget: $20,000,000
- Revenue: $42,000,000
Where to Watch
