My Big Fat Greek Wedding - A Movie Review

This wedding is not going to be big. It’s going to be huge!

My Big Fat Greek Wedding was a success when it was first released in 2002. When a young Greek woman falls in love with a non-Greek man, it sets Toula Portokalos’ family in an uproar. As the family prepares for the wedding, the family struggles to accept her fiance.

I was expecting My Big Fat Greek Wedding to be the usual wedding romance film. My Big Fat Greek Wedding was a surprise box office hit, surpassing $386 million worldwide! The film has a lot of heart and incorporates some of the best characters. No matter one's culture, families should learn how to make things work for the sake of love.

Trapped in her Greek family’s traditions, Toula wants to branch out and be different. I like that about her. Nia Vardalos delivers a standout performance as Toula. She guides her character to be a leader for any woman who needs their voice heard.

John Corbett is also great as Ian. Ian is a likable person who loves Toula for who she is. The chemistry between Vardalos and Corbett makes the film more enchanting. Aside from their affectionate moments, every couple could use an ingredient of sarcasm like them.

The film’s supporting cast is the true asset. The cast brings their characters to life with charisma and authenticity. Gus Portokalos is the best character as the family patriarch. The late Michael Constantine was wonderful in the role. Holding Greek traditions with stubborn pride, he surprises himself and opens up more to Ian.

The interactions between the family members are both comical and heartwarming creating a sense of authenticity throughout the film. Family will always be family.

Some actors to recognize are Laina Kazan, Andrea Martin, Louis Mandylor, Gia Carides, and Gerry Mendicino. The Constantine’s are a BIG family compared to Ian’s. The chemistry between the cast was excellent, especially when they talked over one another in an assortment of conversations.

With its endearing portrayal of family dynamics and the celebrations of heritage, the film captivates audiences with genuine spirit. Joel Zwick made a heartfelt story. The film has several funny family moments that are so relatable. I will forever get a kick out of Gus using Windex to get rid of pimples!

With a big family, that means there are a lot of mouths to feed. Yes, tables and tables of food are seen across the film. There were several Greek caterers wherever the film was shot.

My Big Fat Greek Wedding has several fun facts. Did you know that the script was adapted from cast member, Nia Vardalos about her own Greek heritage? Drawing from her own life experiences, she told this story with genuine humor and authenticity.

The exploration of Greek heritage resonates with several audiences from various backgrounds. Not just Greek cultures, but several families of different backgrounds can relate to the film. Let your family explore love. We should be allowed to make our own decisions. Take the time to learn about culture.

The film is still listed as the highest-grossing romantic comedy of all time. Instead of copying the usual rom-com tropes, My Big Fat Greek Wedding institutes its own themes to make it different from other rom-coms.

I really thought that I wasn’t going to like My Big Fat Greek Wedding but I was wrong. The film has rightfully earned its way as a classic with its infectious spirit. If you have not seen this film, I highly recommend that you watch it with your family.