Friendsgiving is a comedy film directed by Nicol Paone. The film sees a recently single mum (Malin Akerman), settle in to host a family thanksgiving with just her, her son and her best friend who is more like her sister (Kat Dennings), however, as the day goes on more and more people get invited and gradually the occasion spirals out of control.
I have been enjoying Akerman comedy film output recently, between this, Chick Fight and a few others Akerman is really finding a nice niche for herself. I think this film has a good emotional centre, the traumas of Akerman’s characters divorce and Denning’s character pursuit of a new girlfriend make for interesting journeys to observe and they are finished with a satisfying emotional pay off.
I wouldn’t say this film is hugely funny, it made me laugh a few times, but I would say it is more of a smile inducing feel-good film that anything else. The central performances from Dennings and Akerman are both strong, this might be my favourite Kat Dennings performance yet. I also enjoyed the cameos and supporting work from a slew of other famous faces that all have their respective moments to shine.
Overall, though this film won’t set the world on fire it is a nice feel good comedy film that will put a smile on your face on a long winter night.
Pros.
Akerman
Dennings
Surprisingly insightful
Infectious smiling
Cons.
The jokes mostly don’t land/ the comedic writing is weak
4/5
Reviewed by Luke
Another Millennial Reviewer 