Review by Jon Donnis
"My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3" takes audiences back into the Portokalos family's whirlwind of humor and heartfelt moments. Directed and written by Nia Vardalos, this third installment in the beloved franchise follows the iconic characters through another series of amusing escapades in Greece. While the film offers its fair share of touching moments and scenic beauty, it falls short in terms of innovation and humour, resulting in a solid, though somewhat lackluster cinematic experience.
The film's strengths lie in its genuine, heartwarming narrative and the stunning Greek backdrop that serves as a visual feast for the eyes. Nia Vardalos and John Corbett reprise their roles as Fotoula "Toula" Portokalos and Ian Miller, delivering sweet and convincing performances that resonate with fans of the franchise. Their chemistry is as strong as ever, adding to the film's charm.
However, "My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3" leans heavily on nostalgia, revisiting many of the themes and situations that made the original film a hit. While this approach might delight die-hard fans, it doesn't bring anything fresh to the table, making it feel somewhat repetitive.
One noticeable drawback is the film's attempt to incorporate a more modern and "woke" mindset, which may come across as forced and out of touch with the genuine portrayal of Greek culture and life in Greece. This shift can be jarring and may leave audiences rolling their eyes at times.
Additionally, the humor in this installment doesn't quite measure up to the previous films, leaving something to be desired in the laughter department. One recurring issue has been the portrayal of Aunt Voula, played by Andrea Martin, who doesn't quite fit into the Greek context, and her mannerisms may feel inauthentic.
The plot picks up roughly a year after the events of "My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2," and the family is still coping with the loss of Gus and Ian's father. The film explores family dynamics, relationships, and the rediscovery of their Greek roots as they embark on an unexpected journey to Vrisi. This journey leads to the revelation of a long-hidden family secret, which adds an interesting twist to the story.
In conclusion, "My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3" is a respectable addition to the franchise that captures the essence of the beloved characters and their comedic family dynamics. While it falls short in delivering new and fresh material, the film does manage to tug at the heartstrings and provide some beautiful visuals of Greece. If you're a fan of the previous films, you'll likely find it worth a watch, but don't expect it to reach the comedic heights of its predecessors. With all its pros and cons considered, this film receives a 6 out of 10.
I also really miss Michael Constantine as Costas "Gus" Portokalos who sadly died in 2021. He really was the star of the first two films and was the person who all us Greeks fell in love with.
Out Now at
Apple TV - https://apple.co/3FtxAJ2
Amazon - https://amzn.to/3s31wbK
