The film “Death at a Funeral” originally was released in 2007 as a British comedy, starring Matthew Macfadyen and a host of other celebrated British actors. Recently adapted for the American screen, the movie now has a cast featuring Chris Rock, Martin Lawrence, Tracey Morgan, Danny Glover and many other American comedic actors.
If you like a good chuckle, this film may fit in your comedic repertoire, falling among the ranks of “Dumb and Dumber,” “Dance Flick” and “Big Mama’s House.” During the preparations for the funeral of the family patriarch, the oldest brother of the family, played by Chris Rock, tries to pull everything together while unusual and funny circumstances begin to unwind.
Although E! Entertainment News hyped up the film and its original British version, which proved to be a hit overseas, I have found a few cons. The film moves at a slow pace for the first half with too many distractions. Also, some of the actors give great performances, such as Martin Lawrence and Chris Rock, while others appear lackluster. Lawrence and Rock seem to hold back their personalities and skills to balance out with the other actors. Some scenes are more dramatic than necessary, and the comedy wasn’t back-to-back laughter. Despite these observations, the movie does provide great comedic entertainment.
“Death at a Funeral” is now playing in theatres. The film is rated R.