Losing the love of your life at any point in time is one of the most tragic events conceivable, but the thought of losing them just before your wedding day is so painfully sad it turns your stomach. Naturally, this devastating event is the central plot of And Mrs; yet they use this tragedy to make a delightfully funny film that is brilliant front-to-end.
Gemma, played by Irish comic Aisling Bea (the first of many familiar faces from U.K. panel/comedy shows), is adamant that the death of her fiancé, Nathan (Colin Hanks), won’t stop them from getting married. Encouraged by his hair-brained sister, Audrey (Billie Lourd), and questioned by literally everyone else, Gemma commits to do whatever it takes to convince her family and the government that she can and will marry Nathan. Wacky scheme after wacky scheme is played out; the film guarantees a laugh a minute- which is only fair, considering the ending will have you desperately choking back the sobs.
And Mrs is the perfect tear-jerker comedy. The plot is silly enough that the stakes don’t feel too high to be funny and the struggle is sincere enough that the audience relates, sympathises and laughs; And Mrs toes the precarious line between sadness and silliness perfectly.
Plus, it’s full of many familiar faces- the surname Hanks isn’t a coincidence. From U.K. fame, there is Nish Kumar and Susan Wakoma, both previous Taskmaster contestants. There is also Arthur Darvill, known for playing Rory in the Matt Smith Doctor Who era. Elizabeth McGovern and Harriet Walter also feature, along with many, many other recognisable and acclaimed celebs.
However, the ‘spot the celebrity’ element isn’t the highlight of this film- it’s just a fun activity. Their fame isn’t what makes them stand out in this film, either. Everyone puts on a spectacular performance that helps make the film what it is: brilliant.
The script is interesting, the progression of the story is captivating, and the setting of a hustling, bustling London makes this film so easy to watch despite the heavy content matter. Everything about And Mrs pulls you in. Even though marrying the dead is a little nuts, And Mrs is still grounded in reality. From drunk girls in the club to processing grief, everything is done with uncanny accuracy. It’s the spot-on representation that makes this film hit so close to home.
The sadness in this film is weaved throughout, but the tear worthy moments are timed perfectly. Plus, each tear is a good one. And Mrs isn’t sad for the sake of it. You feel good after this movie, like a weight has been lifted off your shoulders. The way it addresses love and loss is stupidly perfect. And Mrs cannot be recommended enough. Even the credits are astronomically gorgeous.
Watch And Mrs; it’s loveable, fun and utterly beautiful. It’s not the most complicated or intricate film, but it doesn’t need to be. And Mrs knows what it wants to be and hits the bullseye.
The Edinburgh International Film Festival runs from 15-21 August. Tickets and showings are available here. Brig’s coverage of the film festival can be found here.
Feature image credit: Vertigo Films
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