The Stepford Wives

While I have not seen the original "Stepford Wives" from 1975, I have to think that it was far superior to this disappointing remake. Featuring an outstanding lineup of talent, from main stars Nicole Kidman and Matthew Broderick, to the solid supporting cast with Glenn Close, Bette Midler and Christopher Walken, one goes into the theater expecting something much bigger and better. Quick trivia: Name the 1988 movie that first paired Matthew Broderick and Christopher Walken. The answer will be at the end of the review.

Joanna and Walter (Kidman and Broderick) are a struggling and stressed out couple looking to get away from the killer world of New York City. Broderick moves his wife and kids (who conveniently disappear halfway through the movie) to the quiet paradise of Stepford, Connecticut. Almost immediately, Joanna senses that something is amiss in Stepford. The wives are all perfect, almost to the point of being too perfect. After a little investigating with her more natural friend Bobbie (Midler), Joanna uncovers the secrets of Stepford. But can she avoid the fate of the other women before it's too late? Fortunately the movie is less than two hours long, so you don't have to endure too much of this mess to find out.

While there are some sharp laughs in the first third of the movie, something happens where things just fall apart. There is no humor in the last third, but you don't notice that because you're trying not to think about the plotline problems from the middle third. Midler and Close are the standouts in their roles and bring most of the humor to the screen. Kidman and Broderick are not convincing as a couple, and Faith Hill's role is so minute you'll forget that she was even in this film. While the ending does come mercifully quick, it is more laughable from its weakness than its strength. While the wives of Stepford may be considered to be perfect by some, "The Stepford Wives" itself is far from perfect. I give it a C-.

The 1988 movie starring Broderick and Walken? Biloxi Blues.

"The Stepford Wives" is rated PG-13 with a running time of 93 minutes.