Bridesmaids, the 2011 comedy that proved female-led films could dominate the box office, is airing on ITV tonight (Friday). Directed by Paul Feig, the movie stars Kristen Wiig as Annie, a woman whose life unravels after she is asked to be maid of honour for her best friend Lillian, played by Maya Rudolph.
The ensemble cast includes Rose Byrne, Ellie Kemper, Melissa McCarthy, and Chris O'Dowd. The film was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $306 million worldwide on a $32.5 million budget. At the 84th Academy Awards, McCarthy earned a nomination for Best Supporting Actress, while Wiig and Annie Mumolo were nominated for Best Original Screenplay.
Critics hailed Bridesmaids as a breakthrough for female-centred comedy, with one reviewer noting it proved 'women could pull off a good fart joke as well as the next guy' and led an all-female cast to blockbuster success. Another described it as 'a landmark in movies' that incisively examines the dynamics of female friendship.
Viewers have also praised the film, with one calling McCarthy's performance 'scene-stealing' and another declaring it 'one of the best comedies ever made'. However, some noted it ran slightly too long, suggesting a 15-20 minute trim would have made it perfect.
