Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997)

★★★★☆

Austin Powers, 60’s swinger and secret agent who was cryogenically frozen in the 60’s, is awakened in the 90’s to fight his sworn enemy Dr. Evil. However, in addition to trying to stop Dr. Evil, Austin must realize that it’s no longer the 60’s and times/attitudes have changed from what he knew. Now, like a fish out of water, he must learn to fit in if he wants to stop Dr. Evil. This brilliant and hysterical parody of the James Blond flicks is a winner. Austin is absolutely clueless about his new surroundings (as well as Dr. Evil who was also frozen in the 60’s) and that’s why it’s so funny. Meyers created a lovable goofball who we can point and laugh wit.

Meet the Fockers (2004)

★★★1/2

What could be worse than meeting the overly conservative parents of your soon-to-be spouse? How about introducing them to your liberal, hippy parents? Yes, Greg Focker is under the radar again as he tries to make Jack Byrnes (his future father in law) feel at ease with his parents. The only problem is that his fiancée, Pam, is pregnant and they aren’t married yet. Now Greg not only has to show Jack that he is a capable father but also find a way to break the news to him. This wonderfully crafted comedy takes all the comedic elements from the first one and twists them around. Hoffman and Streisand give memorable performances as the Fockers and overall it was a great way to introduce the people who named their son Gaylord. It doesn’t have the warm, fuzzy feeling that the original has but it still makes you appreciate your family.

Meet the Parents (2000)

★★★★☆

Greg is your typical fool in love. He has a great job as a male nurse and a loving girlfriend and soon to be fiancée. The only problem that stands between him and proposing is that he has to meet her parents. What starts off as an awkward visit ends in utter madness as Greg tries to impress and deal with his girlfriend’s over-analytical and critical father Jack. Can he make it through one weekend without second-guessing his proposal? This is a fantastic, awkwardly funny movie that has as great cast of characters and a great rom-com formula. We’ve all been in Greg’s shoes; trying to impress our spouse’s families but this movie takes it one step further. That’s why it’s not only relatable and funny but it brings out the warmth and joy within families. It truly is a beautiful movie.