The film that shattered box office expectations for female-led comedies and earned an Oscar nomination is set to grace television screens this evening. Bridesmaids, the 2011 smash hit directed by Paul Feig, airs on ITV2 at 9pm.
A Comedy Landmark Returns to TV
Premiering over a decade ago, Bridesmaids quickly established itself as a cultural touchstone. The plot follows Annie, played by Kristen Wiig, whose life unravels after she is named maid of honour for her best friend Lillian, portrayed by Maya Rudolph. The stellar ensemble cast, including Rose Byrne, Ellie Kemper, Chris O'Dowd, and a scene-stealing Melissa McCarthy, brought a hilarious and incisive look at friendship, jealousy, and wedding chaos to life.
The movie's impact was both immediate and lasting. Produced on a budget of $32.5 million, it earned a staggering $306 million worldwide. Its success proved a major point in Hollywood: audiences were eager for smart, riotous comedies with women at the forefront. The Academy took note, with McCarthy receiving a Best Supporting Actress nomination and Wiig, alongside co-writer Annie Mumolo, nominated for Best Original Screenplay.
Critical Acclaim and Lasting Legacy
Critics hailed Bridesmaids as a definitive breakthrough. It was praised not just for its humour but for its authentic exploration of female dynamics. One review highlighted how the film "incisively examines the delicate dynamics of a female friendship group," capturing the blend of pettiness, pride, and loyalty that can exist among close friends.
Another credited the film with demonstrating that "women could pull off a good fart joke as well as the next guy," leading an all-female cast to blockbuster success. The performance of Kristen Wiig was singled out as a revelation, showing that a character could be both deeply neurotic and sympathetic, proving that "being funny and having feelings are not mutually exclusive."
Audience Reactions and Enduring Appeal
Viewers have consistently echoed this praise, cementing the film's status as a modern classic. Fans often cite Melissa McCarthy's unforgettable performance as Megan, with many arguing her character deserved a standalone film. "Every single time that Melissa McCarthy was on the screen, she made me double over in laughter," one viewer noted, calling her work "the definition of 'scene-stealing'."
Others celebrate its rewatchability, calling it "one of the best comedies ever made" and a guaranteed mood-lifter. While some felt the runtime was slightly long, the consensus is clear: Bridesmaids remains a hilariously relatable portrait of friendship under pressure. Its legacy is secure, frequently ranked among the best comedies of the 21st century.
Don't miss the chance to revisit this comedy milestone. Bridesmaids airs on ITV2 tonight, Friday, at 9pm.
