‘27 Dresses’: Katherine Heigl Plays Always a Bridesmaid, Never the Bride

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I am always up for a re-watch (of one) of my favorite romantic-comedies, so today that is exactly what I’m doing. Most of the blockbusters I enjoy aren’t mainstream critics’ idea of a good time including 27 Dresses. However since romantic comedies often find a place among my collection (as do other genres, I promise), this was a must-see. Here from the screenwriters of Devil Wears Prada and director Anne Fletcher is how Hollywood plays with the the ever popular “always a bridesmaid never a bride” motto.

27 Dresses (2008) Film Review

Her first taste of a how magical a wedding can be comes at a young age when Jane, her sister Tess and their single father attend a family wedding. Years go by and Jane (Katherine Heigl) is still the same practical, and sweet girl. She’s the go-to girl for every wedding she’s a part of. Jane’s own love life however is in disarray. She has been secretly in love with her boss George (Edward Burns) for years. Then Kevin (James Marsdan), a journalist, enters her life.

Coinciding with the annoying presence of this communist is the return of Jane’s baby sister, Tess (Malin Akerman). Her gorgeous sister, who also happens to steal George’s attention…

The events that happen are sometimes silly, but ultimately end on a sweet conclusion that leaves a smile in place. Nothing from Hollywood is perfect and this is likewise flawed, but it has heart. All four of the main characters have flaws and I think the screenwriters did a nice job of showing that. Jane’s imperfections are easy to relate too, easily recognized. Her romanticism though sometimes misguided, comes from a good place as does her desire to protect and nurture.

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To be honest, while this may primarily be a romance, it’s also an accurate portrait of sisters, and the fragile bond between them. The most important thing about this part of the story is that everyone learns something valuable. I liked how the relationships were resolved, or in some cases not. That said, don’t fret over the thought of an incomplete ending. All of the characters are left in the place they should be; for themselves and their respective (or the possibility of) relationships.  

From the director of Step Up, this one had my name all over it from the start. Though not unique among romantic-comedy tropes, it is unusually charming. There is the general boy-meets-girl plot that involves sparks flying, and a life-long romance that waits in the wings. But there is a fairy-tale quality to it also. One of my favorite scene involves an unexpected visit from Kevin, and those 27 dresses. What I liked so much about the scene is its sweetness and the glimpse into the relationship between these two. The scene in which Jane finally lands her guy is also touching. 

By the conclusion we have hope that certain characters will have their chance at redeemed love and that in itself is refreshing. It isn’t perfect, but I’d recommend it. The greatest incentive? It has an ending that leaves you believing in happily-ever after.

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Content: 27 Dresses is PG13 for commonplace profanity and sexual content. Cavalier attitudes about sex and relationships [couples casually spend nights together], and a few adult scenes/situations.

Photos: Fox 2000 Pictures / Twentieth Century Fox / Spyglass Entertainment