In-Laws
In-Laws

Movie spotlight

In-Laws

1981
Movie
0
Mandarin

Insights

IMDb6.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes71%
Google Users75%
Director: Arthur HillerGenres: Comedy, Crime

Plot Summary

A New York dentist, Sheldon Kornpett, finds his life turned upside down when his daughter announces her engagement to the son of a mysterious CIA agent, Vince Sherman. Skeptical and increasingly suspicious of Sherman's odd behavior and clandestine activities, Sheldon gets unwillingly drawn into a dangerous international espionage plot. The ensuing chaos involves a runaway speedboat, a stolen priceless stamp collection, and a Latin American dictator.

Critical Reception

The film was generally well-received by critics for its witty script and the comedic chemistry between its leads. It's often remembered as a charming, albeit somewhat convoluted, action-comedy that plays on the anxieties of an ordinary man caught in extraordinary circumstances. Audience reception was positive, appreciating the blend of humor and suspense.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for the comedic pairing of Alan Arkin and Peter Falk.

  • Appreciated for its clever dialogue and fast-paced, albeit wild, plot.

  • Seen as a fun, if occasionally implausible, espionage comedy.

Google audience: Audiences enjoyed the humor and the performances of the main actors, finding it an entertaining and lighthearted comedy with surprising twists.

Fun Fact

The script was originally conceived as a drama but was rewritten as a comedy after Peter Falk was cast as Vince Sherman, with the filmmakers wanting to capitalize on his comedic talent.

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