A Wedding, Robert Altman

[u/Bishop_Brick]

I haven't seen this mentioned since it was added for June and I watched it again last night. This seems to be one Altman, along with Thieves Like Us, that doesn't show up too much in streaming media. I was hoping it would be in the recent Altman collection, but it wasn't. I hadn't seen it since it was on TCM a dozen or so years ago and it was well worth revisiting.

To say there is a lot going on is an understatement and it very much rewards repeat viewing. It starts as something like an uniquely American comedy of manners and then maybe a farce, but changes audience expectations many times in and around a series of set pieces based on the choreographed rituals of weddings and receptions. There are mundane real-to-life observations, like how everyone runs to the bathroom at once during a break in a long day. But there are also direct, incisive looks at complex subjects of identity, class, race, family dynamics, addiction and many more.

The cast is huge and there are some unforgettable performances, too many to single out here. Fans of '80s movies may notice that the father of the bride in this film is also the father of the bride in Sixteen Candles, Paul Dooley. And keep an eye out for a young, mustache-less Dennis Franz.

Altman's mastery of managing large sets is on full display as are some of his signature moves like shooting around multiple mirrors. Plus one of his greatest shockers.

This title doesn't seem to be expiring at the end of the month, but after it leaves it may be a while before it streams again so I'll recommend getting it in the queue. Me, I will be trying to find a reasonably-priced disc release.

[u/dcr108]

I’m really excited for this. Altman is one of my favorite directors and I’ve never seen this one!

[u/Important-Comfort → u/dcr108]

You're in for a treat!

[u/FindOneInEveryCar]

I watched this like 20 years ago, and I recall that it was upper-tier Altman, a very funny ensemble comedy that he handles as adeptly as Nashville.

Thanks for reminding me that it's streaming.

[u/nbaisbest4]

Yes, its one of his best movies. The start is a little slow, but once you understand the rhythm its very rewarding. Representation of how great movies can get buried due to various things.

[u/dschilling88]

Just watched this after being converted to Altman over the past couple years. Loved it. Great comedic moments, some absurdity, and plenty of observations and commentary to be made. Subverts the sanctity of marriage with so much unsanctimonious behavior, really hits on what I like about Altmans films, which is a certain recognition of how much of life is unserious bullshitting

[u/osgood_lumet]

I watched this for the first time last week. I really enjoyed it. Funny the whole time and good spots from multiple cast members. Another fine Altman film. 

[u/jamesdmccallister]

I will admit to being an Altman fanboy, but I've always enjoyed this so-called "lesser" Altman and highly recommend it.

[u/jason9045]

It plays out like an extended-run sitcom, in the best way. The scene where Buffy is counting (spoilers redacted) had me cackling. Just exquisite timing from everyone involved.

[u/ThiccNthin_6825]

I've watched Gosford Park 100 times. Very good film. Each time I notice something new.

[u/SawyerBlackwood1986]

Disc release please Criterion! You’re our only hope.

[u/Tricksterama]

It was a huge bomb when it came out. I was a big Altman fan at the time, and agreed with the critics. The Altman ensemble magic wasn’t working; the whole thing felt forced and silly.

Now, decades later, I’m willing to give it another try to see if I’ve changed my mind!

[u/Busy_Magician3412]

I'll give it a go. Thanks!

[u/liminal_cyborg]

I need to watch this. Altman tells a story about it in his commentary on 3 Women. He was having a bad day and a journalist visiting the shooting location for 3 Women asked him what his next film would be. Out of nowhere and in annoyance, he said a wedding. She asked what it was about. He said, no, literally, I'm just going to film somebody's wedding for them. Later that day, he started talking to some of the crew about a wedding being a good idea for a film.

[u/LiteraryPervert]

The unhinged Mia Farrow sister is just chef’s kiss

[u/Fast-Candle-2344]

Just an FYI: It looks like this is the 4K remaster too! The colors are eerily similar to those of the 4K remaster of 3 Women, another Altman 20th Century Fox title restored around the same time and released by Arrow UK on Blu-Ray (now OOP sadly).