Wedding Crashers, released in theaters on July 15, 2005, is a raucous and surprisingly heartfelt romantic comedy that redefined the genre with its sharp wit, outrageous antics, and a fantastic ensemble cast. Directed by David Dobkin, the film is a high-energy ride that perfectly blends crude humor with genuine emotional depth, making it a standout in modern comedy.
Jeremy Grey (Vince Vaughn) and John Beckwith (Owen Wilson) are two divorce mediators and lifelong friends who spend their free time crashing weddings to meet and seduce women. They have a strict set of rules to ensure their success and avoid emotional entanglement.
However, their well-oiled system is challenged when they crash the wedding of the Treasury Secretary’s daughter, where John falls genuinely in love with Claire Cleary (Rachel McAdams), despite her being engaged.
To get closer to Claire, John and Jeremy finagle an invitation to the Cleary family’s extravagant weekend estate, leading to a hilarious and chaotic series of events as they try to maintain their charade, navigate family eccentricities, and confront their own commitment issues.
Vaughn delivers a classic performance as Jeremy Grey, the fast-talking, cynical, and often inappropriate half of the duo. Vaughn’s rapid-fire delivery and improvisational style are a constant source of laughter, making Jeremy both a cad and surprisingly endearing.
Wilson is charming and earnest as John Beckwith, the more romantic and conflicted of the two crashers. Wilson brings his signature laid-back charisma, effectively portraying John’s journey from a commitment-phobe to a man genuinely seeking love.
The chemistry between Vaughn and Wilson is electric, forming the comedic heart of the film.
McAdams shines as Claire Cleary, the intelligent and kind woman who captures John’s heart. McAdams brings warmth and vulnerability to the role, making her a compelling love interest.
Christopher Walken is brilliantly unsettling and hilarious as Secretary Cleary, the family patriarch.
Isla Fisher delivers a breakout, scene-stealing performance as Gloria Cleary, the sexually aggressive and obsessive younger sister who latches onto Jeremy.
Isla Fisher in Wedding Crashers (Photo/New Line Cinema)
Jane Seymour is fantastic as Kathleen Cleary, the seductive mother of the bride.
Bradley Cooper plays Sack Lodge, Claire’s arrogant and possessive fiancé, providing a perfect antagonist.
Henry Gibson makes a memorable appearance as the eccentric Father O’Neil.
And in a hilarious, uncredited cameo, Will Ferrell appears as Chazz Reinhold, the legendary wedding crasher who inspires John and Jeremy.
Reception for Wedding Crashers
Wedding Crashers grossed $32.2 million on its opening weekend, finishing second at the box office behind Charlie and the Chocolate Factory ($56.2 million).
The film would move up to No. 1 in its third weekend and remain in the top 10 for nine weeks en route to grossing $288.5 million worldwide.
Legacy
Wedding Crashers is a riotous and surprisingly sweet comedy that explores themes of love, friendship, and the courage to break free from old habits. It’s a non-stop laugh-fest with genuine heart, making it a beloved modern classic.
