Okay, settle in, because we're about to dive into a question that has plagued film fanatics and wedding enthusiasts alike: Just how many Father of the Bride movies are there?
The OG: A Classic is Born
Let's start at the very beginning, a very good place to start. The first Father of the Bride, the granddaddy of them all, came out in 1950. Imagine a world of black and white TVs and swing dancing – that's the vibe!
Spencer Tracy plays the frazzled dad trying to cope with his daughter's impending nuptials. Think Cary Grant charm but with a healthy dose of bewildered panic.
Remake Mania: The Steve Martin Era
Fast forward to the 1990s, and BOOM! Steve Martin enters the chat. This is the Father of the Bride most of us probably picture when the title is mentioned, complete with a golden retriever, a swanky wedding planner, and enough stressed-out faces to power a small city.
The 1991 version is a comedic masterpiece, full of slapstick and heartwarming moments. George Banks, played by Steve Martin, is iconic.
And guess what? They didn't stop there!
Father of the Bride Part II: The Sequel We Didn't Know We Needed (But Secretly Loved)
Yup, Father of the Bride Part II exists! This time, George isn't just dealing with a wedding; he's also facing the joys and terrors of impending grandparenthood.
Talk about a mid-life crisis wrapped in a baby blanket. This one came out in 1995.
So, Are We Done? Not Quite!
Now, before you think we've reached the end of the aisle, there's a bit of a plot twist. In 2020, during a certain global event that kept us all glued to our couches, Netflix blessed us with something special.
It was a short, sweet, and very 2020-ish reunion. Think Zoom calls, social distancing, and a whole lot of virtual hugs.
Father of the Bride, Part 3(ish)
This wasn't a full-fledged movie, but more of a special event. Still, it counts in my book as it brings back the original cast from the 1990s version.
Let's be real, it was a dose of nostalgia we desperately needed!
The Latest Iteration: A Fresh Take
Hold onto your hats, because the Father of the Bride saga continues! In 2022, a new version graced our screens, this time with a Cuban-American family at the heart of the story.
Starring Andy Garcia and Gloria Estefan, this version brought a fresh perspective and a whole lot of vibrant cultural flair. This version is worth a watch!
The Grand Total: Drumroll Please!
Alright, after all that wedding cake and champagne, let's tally it up. We've got the original 1950 film, the 1991 remake, the 1995 sequel, the 2020 reunion special, and the 2022 reimagining.
That makes a grand total of...FIVE Father of the Bride "things".
Not including various TV show inspired series!
So there you have it! A complete guide to the ever-expanding world of Father of the Bride movies. Now go forth and enjoy the cinematic chaos of weddings, parental panic, and heartwarming family moments!