The veteran actors play wildly diverse characters shocked by their grown children’s forthcoming marriage. Douglas is Steve Tobias, a daredevil CIA operative who moves through life like a heat-seeking missile. His average day consists of dodging bullets, stealing private jets and negotiating with international arms smugglers. Brooks is Jerry Peyser, a terrified podiatrist forced to parachute off a high-rise building in downtown Chicago.
Their paths would never cross except Steve’s son (Van Wilder’s Ryan Reynolds) is about to marry Jerry’s daughter (Bring It On’s Lindsay Sloane). No two men could ever be more clearly defined as oil and water, yet they have to try to blend. Do you think they can mix?
But as wedding preparations heat up, Steve and Jerry find themselves linked in a wild espionage caper. It starts with a casual night out for dinner when Steve’s work interferes – big time. Soon Steve is trying to break up a global arms deal, while Jerry is simply trying to stay alive in a world he thought existed only in 007 movies. This storyline is full of action and funny scenes–brilliantly and hilariously directed.
If the title and concept sound familiar, they should. The In-Laws is a loosely adapted remake of a 1979 hit comedy, much beloved by a coterie of fans. In the original, the contrary in-laws are memorably played by Peter Falk and Alan Arkin.
Douglas and Brooks bring their own unique persona to the 2003 version. Brooks is hilarious as the utterly unadventurous Jerry; his shocked reactions and nervous-Nelly line readings are perfect.
Whether he’s trying to soothe the villain with a foot massage or bellowing "Don’t rape me!," he’s the film’s highlight.
Douglas’ performance is very remarkable. He is doing something he hasn’t done since his Romancing the Stone films in the ’80s – a breezy comedic role in the Cary Grant tradition. As relaxed and assured as Brooks is uptight, he creates a humorous contrast.
The movie was spiced-up with amusing musical choices (including Paul McCartney’s Bond theme, Live and Let Die, over Douglas’ opening spy sequence). Can you imagine how funny the scene is? It will make you laugh, laugh and laugh... and at the same time thrilled by the amazing stunts of the two combustible In-Laws.