Parental Guidance

When their "perfect" daughter's parents need to work, a loving but old-fashioned grandparent duo are tasked with looking after their over-scheduled grandkids. The grandparents soon discover that today's modern parenting is a minefield of contradictions and that they must adapt to the times or risk alienating their family.

Parental Guidance received largely negative reviews from critics, who found the humor predictable and the plot uninspired. Audience reception was somewhat more favorable, with many appreciating the intergenerational themes and the performances of the lead actors, though some also echoed critical sentiments about the film's lack of originality.

• The film relies heavily on predictable gags and tired stereotypes about generational differences.

• While the cast, particularly Billy Crystal and Bette Midler, offer some charm, they can't elevate the weak material.

• The humor often falls flat, and the plot offers little in the way of surprise or genuine insight.

Google audience: Google users generally found the film to be a lighthearted and enjoyable family comedy, appreciating the chemistry between the lead actors and the heartwarming message about family. However, some viewers felt the humor was a bit dated and the plot too formulaic.

Bette Midler and Billy Crystal had previously worked together in the 1991 film "For the Boys."