#REVIEW: “LIFE OF THE PARTY”

Review by Justin Waldman for Mr. Will Wong

Life of the Party is far-fetched and ridiculous, packed with humour and one hell of a turn for Melissa McCarthy that will leave the audience in stitches.

The Movie starts off with parents Deanna (Melissa McCarthy) and Dan (Matt Walsh) dropping-off their child, Maddie (Molly Gordon)  at college for her last year. Five minutes after that happens, Deanna and Dan are meant to be off to Italy for a trip, that is until Dan decides to tell Deanna that he wants a divorce and Deanna’s world is turned upside down. Since Deanna never finished college as a result of being pregnant with Maddie, she decides to go back to college where she befriends her daughter and her friends including Helen (Gillian Jacobs), Amanda (Adria Arjona) and Gildred (Sarah Baker). Deanna tries not to overstep boundaries with her daughter, while accepting her divorce, and trying to finish her degree from 23 year years ago. Fom here the non-stop comedy ensues.

What makes Life of the Party so much fun is Melissa McCarthy. In the First Act, she goes off-brand and almost turns into Amy Schumer with the vulgarity of her comedy, but thankfully in the Second and Third Act, she returns to form and becomes the Funnywoman audiences have come to adore. However, it is not only her brilliance that amplifies the comedy of the Movie, it is her Bridesmaids Co–star Maya Rudolph in the role of Christine that also makes some incredible comedic performances as well. Moreover though, some of the side characters truly shine as well, especially Sarah Baker as Gildred who is just the typical college girl trying to fit-in but still hasn’t fully found herself, and of course Deanna’s roommate, SNL star Heidi Gardner as Leonor, who steals every scene she is in.

Life of the Party is downright funny even if though it might not tickle everyone’s funny bone. If you’re a fan of Melissa McCarthy or zany antics,  Life of the Party is for you.

Warner Bros. Canada releases LIFE OF THE PARTY in theatres Friday, May 11, 2018.