Cast
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Hugh Grant
as Charles
Andie MacDowell
as Carrie
Kristin Scott Thomas
as Fiona
Simon Callow
as Gareth
James Fleet
as Tom
John Hannah
as Matthew
Charlotte Coleman
as Scarlett
David Bower
as David
Corin Redgrave
as Hamish
Rowan Atkinson
as Father Gerald
Anna Chancellor
as Henrietta
Timothy Walker
as Angus the Groom - Wedding One
Sara Crowe
as Laura the Bride - Wedding One
Ronald Herdman
as Vicar - Wedding One
Elspet Gray
as Laura's Mother - Wedding One
Crew
Director
- Mike Newell
Producer
- Duncan Kenworthy
Reviews
r96sk
Good, if a little light on actual laughs.
Hugh Grant is the best thing about <em>'Four Weddings and a Funeral'</em>, he gives an amusing performance. The plot is obvious and speaks for itself, it does lead to a few interesting shenanigans. Some of the dialogue is iffy, as is some of the editing though.
None of the cast behind Grant stood out to me, with the exception of Rowan Atkinson; but that's only down to how well known he is in general, as here he is underused. I found Andie MacDowell's performance very wooden. I appreciate them not going the obvious route with Kristin Scott Thomas' character, even if it makes her Fiona redundant throughout.
Just about serviceable, worth watching if only once.
Jan 26, 2021
CinemaSerf
Whilst this largely centres around the persona of "Charles" (Hugh Grant) it's really more the compendium of characters that makes this comedy work well. He is late for the first of the weddings, but that doesn't really matter except it's where he first espies "Carrie" (Andi MacDowell). A one night stand ensues and both seem to like the other, but nothing comes of it and we proceed to the next wedding, then the next. It's this third one that turns out to be her's - to a laird a little older than she. "Charles" is crestfallen but what to do? Might it be best to settle for someone else - even is she's not the one? Richard Curtis has written a gem of a comedy here, allowing a slew of characterful personalities to slot into the life of "Charles". The underused, brightly waist-coated, Simon Callow is probably my favourite. He and boyfriend "Matthew" (John Hannah) have an habit of exposing the more preposterous and yukkie sides of the wedding; the twee folk singers and the guests who overdo the free bar or think they are god's gift. Indeed, as much of this takes a swing at the whole symbolism and ceremony of marriage as it plays on the foibles and flaws of "Charles" and his friends. Rowan Atkinson's bumbling vicar "Gerald" has the pews in hysterics and Charlotte Coleman is great as the maybe a bit too frank "Scarlett". It pieces together a bit to serendipitously and I maybe don't need to hear the Wet Wet Wet song again any time soon, but it showcases a range British acting talent in an amiable and enjoyable fashion for two hours.
Apr 15, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Four Weddings and a Funeral 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 Mike Newell 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 1994, 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 Four Weddings and a Funeral took approximately 20 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $4.4 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 117 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 159 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 1459 individual shots.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 2 weeks before filming began.
Historical Context
- In 1994, when this film was released:
- Globalization was accelerating economic and cultural exchange.
- 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 Four Weddings and a Funeral shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Sign, which focuses more on action than character development, Four Weddings and a Funeral offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Breathless and Ronja the Robber's Daughter explore similar territory, Four Weddings and a Funeral stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: March 9, 1994
- Runtime: 1h 57m
- Budget: $4,400,000
- Revenue: $245,700,832
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