Two decades have passed since The Wedding Date first graced our screens on Feb. 4, 2005, and this delightful romantic comedy remains a charming and enjoyable watch. While it might not reinvent the genre, it executes the classic rom-com formula with wit, warmth, and undeniable chemistry between its leads, making it a perfect comfort movie for a cozy night in.
Debra Messing shines as Kat Ellis, a successful but perpetually single woman who hires a male escort, Nick Mercer (Dermot Mulroney), to pose as her boyfriend at her sister’s wedding. The predictable but oh-so-satisfying twist, of course, is that real feelings begin to develop between Kat and Nick, leading to a series of hilarious and heartwarming situations.
Messing and Mulroney have undeniable on-screen chemistry. Their banter is sharp, their interactions are playful, and you can’t help but root for them to overcome their initial deception and find true love. Mulroney perfectly embodies the charming and confident Nick, while Messing captures Kat’s vulnerability and wit with equal aplomb.
Their performances are what truly elevate the film.
Dermot Mulroney and Debra Messing in The Wedding Date (Photo/Universal Pictures)
The supporting cast is equally charming led by Amy Adams, in an early role, as Kat’s bubbly and slightly naive sister Amy. Jack Davenport adds a touch of British charm as Kat’s ex-boyfriend, who unexpectedly reappears on the scene. The wedding setting itself provides a colorful and festive backdrop for the romantic hijinks that ensue.
The Wedding Date isn’t breaking any new ground, but it doesn’t need to. It delivers exactly what you expect from a good romantic comedy: laugh-out-loud moments, heartwarming scenes, and a satisfying resolution. The film’s humor is light and breezy, the romance is sweet and genuine, and the overall tone is one of pure escapism.
Reception for The Wedding Date
The Wedding Date grossed $11.1 million on its opening weekend, finishing in second place behind Boogeyman ($19 million) and ahead of Million Dollar Baby ($8.7 million) starring Hilary Swank, Clint Eastwood and Morgan Freeman and The Aviator ($5.4 million) starring Leonardo DiCaprio.
The film would gross $47.1 million worldwide in its theatrical run.
Roger Ebert gave the film two and a half stars in his review, saying “The Wedding Date presents the curious case of two appealing performances surviving a bombardment of schlock.”
Legacy
The Wedding Date remains a beloved rom-com classic. It’s a testament to the enduring power of a well-told story, charming leads, and a healthy dose of feel-good vibes. If you’re looking for a lighthearted and enjoyable movie to watch, this one is definitely worth a revisit. It’s a timeless tale of love, laughter, and the realization that sometimes, the best things in life are the ones we least expect.
