Licensed to Wed very easily falls into that category of film that’s quickly forgotten prior to viewing and definitely one you could pass on. It’s not without some merit, though; if you’re a fan of the American TV series The Office you’ll have fun noticing several of its cast members throughout the film, outside of course the movie’s male lead John Krasinski, and the film’s fast-paced enough that there isn’t much lull time where not a lot’s happening. The film’s saving grace, perhaps, is Mandy Moore, while her character isn’t particularly multifaceted or deep, she’s absolutely gorgeous and brings a glow and energy that’s sorely lacking in most of the scenes without her. DeRay Davis and Eric Christian Olsen both have relatively minor characters, both are super funny guys who’d I would have liked to seen get more screen time. Robin Williams rounds out the cast, and while he’s usually dependable for the laughs, the material here is lacking, and there’s only so much even the most professional actor can do with a lousy script.
Romantic comedies’ success often depends on the chemistry between the leads, and while these two are fairly fun to watch together we don’t get much of a sense of their relationship, thus not really caring as much as the filmmaker’s would hope. They met at a Starbucks, which while not wholly unbelievable seems a bit simplistic, and besides coaching a youth basketball team, we never do quite learn what Krasinski’s character does outside of date Moore’s and make dry, witty quips. Of course, all works out in the end, as the atypical Hollywood idyllic ending isn’t spared on this one.
If you’re looking for a better romantic comedy, or Robin Williams movie, there are many, many to choose from. I’d only give this a serious recommendation to big fans of Moore and/or Krasinski.
Overall Grade: C+