Never settle. You’re too good for that person. I know what is best for you.” We have all heard these words, and of course, “mother knows best”. “Because I Said So,” which kicked off Superbowl weekend, is a film made by and targeted toward women and emphasizes these virtues, giving the target audience something else to focus on.
A darling chick flick that can only be appreciated by mothers and daughters, “Because I Said So” centers on an overbearing mother trying to do the best for her daughters.
The overbearing mother, Daphne (Diane Keaton), at the verge of her “descent into oblivion,” her 60th birthday, is preoccupied with youngest daughter Milly (Mandy Moore). Of her three daughters, Milly is the only one still single.
Keaton has embraced the role as the overprotective mother, while Moore compliments her character, though most scenes are considerably clich√©. They fight and they make up…a lot.
Director Michael Lehmann chose a cast that could play well off each other. Moore grew in her acting throughout the film, exhibiting a strong performance.
Nothing needs to be said about veteran Keaton, who was nothing short of respectable. Adding to the charming cast is Lauren Graham (“Gilmore Girls,” “Evan Almighty”) who plays Maggie, the oldest daughter.
She is a psychologist who continually tries to break it to her mother that she is doing no good deed. Piper Perabo(“Coyote Ugly,” “The Prestige”) plays Mae, whose role as the free spirited daughter is minimal, though completes the trio.
In a twist on the common interference of mothers, Daphne places an Internet ad, seeking a man for Milly.
Though the search is comedic, including ventriloquists and drag queens, Daphne believes she knows what is best, however, maybe she doesn’t. The outcome includes the expected man Jason (Tom Everett Scott), and the unexpected Johnny (Gabriel Macht). Jason is everything her mother is looking for, mature, charming and successful. To Daphne, Johnny is a heartbreaker, even after he charms his way into Milly’s heart. Now Milly must make a choice, and ultimately follow her heart. And in the quest to find her daughter love, Daphne just may find it herself.
The problem with “Because I Said So” lies in the simple fact it is targeted to one audience. This film will only be admired by a girl, young or old, who has a special relationship with her mother. Or by a mother who only wants the best for her kids.
Men will walk right by this in the theater and chuckle. They will also leave the room when their wives and daughters rent it, which they will. The plot is one-sided and gives nothing to amuse other demographics. Audiences will also compare it to many other movies that preceded it with similar plots.
Just be forewarned; this is a chick flick. The film is worth watching if you understand the connection, and have heard your mom tell you “Motherhood is impossible love,” like Daphne. Or if you simply want to get away from whatever sports game may be on.
