Queen Bees

A lightweight but likable comedy.

As all movies about this stage of life must, among obvious jokes about aches, pains, and Viagra—apparently it is okay to sexually objectify someone if you're old—Queen Bees touches gently and sympathetically on the inescapable challenges of aging, loss of loved ones, loss of independence, cancer, strokes, and dementia.

The overly simplistic nature of the script becomes both pragmatic and detrimental, never allowing any character the depth they are owed while providing just enough of a formulaic plot, one that asks nothing more than for you to enjoy the ensemble.

The by-the-numbers film is not hard to sit through and won’t offend anybody, but its lofty, worthwhile message doesn’t feel earned.

Well, there are worse ideas for movies and certainly worse casts, and Michael Lembeck’s genial, predictable comedy rolls along on well-worn tracks elevated by the class and commitment of actors who’ve earned our affection over decades of work.

And for all the comedic talent in the film, from Curtin to Lloyd, who seem game for anything, there are precious few genuine laughs to be had. Perhaps the script should have allowed for more improvisation.

Each of these stalwarts bring more than charisma to their roles, and when the writing itself displays some snap (which admittedly isn’t that often) the performers bite right into it.

Hollywood occasionally aims for the Boomer+ audience with limited success (POMS comes to mind: my review). Ellen Burstyn plays a woman who reluctantly moves in a retirement community, where she meets an impressive cast of seniors, including Jane Curtain, Ann-Margret, Loretta Devine, Christopher Lloyd and James Caan. The food in these facilities is notoriously bland and this script follows suit. The plot is so completely predictable that it hurts (including with the expected ailments). The characters relationships are telegraphed long before they develop and none of the dialogue is remotely interesting. Devine gets the only mildly fun moments, while the rest of the cast plays it earnest. Perhaps an audience over 80 might relate, but anyone younger is liable to groan at this facile pandering approach to aging.

On the one hand, it's great to see fine actors getting gigs in their old age. On the other, not like this. This is sitcom territory and it just makes me sad for them, granted, they're working and getting paid. I would really love to hear their honest opinions about it, not the plug for the movie. If they're having fun making this, great, but it's a no for me dawg.