Why Him? is a 2016 film that follows the story of Laird Mayhew, a free-spirited CEO of a video game company, who tries his best to win over the heart of his girlfriend’s father, Ned Fleming. Despite the differences in their personalities, Laird is determined to gain the approval of his girlfriend’s parents, especially Ned, who believes Laird is not the right fit for his daughter. This comedic film showcases the struggles of a young couple trying to overcome the obstacles of disapproving parents. In this article, we will discuss the synopsis and review of Why Him?
Synopsis
Stephanie Fleming, a Stanford student, takes her boyfriend, Laird Mayhew, to her family home for Christmas. Ned, her father, is reluctant to accept Laird due to his bizarre personality and wealthy status. With the intention of gaining Ned’s approval, Laird tries to impress the family with his eccentricities, which unfortunately only causes more friction with Ned. Laird’s uncensored remarks and odd behavior push Ned to his limits, making him even more convinced that Laird is the wrong man for Stephanie. Laird then decides to go the extra mile and buys Ned’s struggling printing business and pays off his debts in an attempt to win him over.
However, the gesture backfires, and Ned becomes even more furious with Laird. Stephanie is caught in the middle of it all as she tries to balance her love for Laird and her father’s disapproval. With tensions rising, Laird decides to throw a Christmas party and invite all of the investors in his company, hoping that Ned will come around after seeing Laird’s success. Meanwhile, Stephanie has another surprise that dents the relationship between father and daughter even further.
Review
Why Him? is a classic tale of a young man trying to win over the heart of his girlfriend’s father, portrayed in a comedic setting. The story brings out the differences between the old and the new generation, showcasing how traditional values clash with modern ways. The film delivers great laughs, and the characters are well-portrayed, with James Franco’s performance as Laird standing out the most. Franco’s character is the perfect balance of cringe and comedy, and his antics provide the majority of the film’s humor.
The chemistry between the cast members is excellent and brings added value to the story. While some of the jokes may be predictable, the delivery is still hilarious, with the perfect timing of the jokes and the natural reactions of the characters. The storyline may not be one of the most original, but the execution and performances make up for it.
Conclusion
Why Him? is an enjoyable film that combines family, humor, and a hint of romance. The movie provides a humorous take on the often-complex relationship between parents and their children’s partners. While the film may not be groundbreaking, it shines due to the well-executed performances and clever writing. With the perfect blend of comedy and heart, Why Him? is worth the watch, especially if you’re looking for a good laugh.
