An In-Depth Review of “Rumor Has It…” (2005): A Romantic Comedy with a Twist
Rumor Has It…, directed by Rob Reiner and released in 2005, is a romantic comedy that explores family secrets and the nature of relationships. Starring Jennifer Aniston, Kevin Costner, Shirley MacLaine, and Mark Ruffalo, the film offers a humorous and introspective look at love, fidelity, and identity.
Plot Summary
The film follows Sarah Huttinger (Jennifer Aniston), a journalist struggling with her career and engagement to Jeff (Mark Ruffalo). When Sarah returns home for her sister’s wedding, she discovers a family secret: her mother and grandmother may have inspired the characters in the novel The Graduate. This revelation leads Sarah to question her own identity and relationships.
Intrigued, Sarah tracks down Beau Burroughs (Kevin Costner), the man who allegedly had affairs with both her mother and grandmother. As she spends time with Beau, Sarah navigates a series of comedic and emotional situations, ultimately leading her to a deeper understanding of herself and her family.
Performance and Direction
Jennifer Aniston delivers a charming and relatable performance as Sarah, capturing the character’s confusion and growth with sincerity. Kevin Costner brings a relaxed charisma to Beau, while Shirley MacLaine’s portrayal of Katharine Richelieu, Sarah’s sharp-tongued grandmother, adds a layer of wit and wisdom to the film. Mark Ruffalo provides a grounded and supportive presence as Jeff, balancing the ensemble cast.
Director Rob Reiner blends humor and drama effectively, maintaining a light-hearted tone while addressing deeper themes of self-discovery and familial bonds. The screenplay, written by Ted Griffin, offers witty dialogue and engaging scenarios, though some critics feel the film’s premise lacks originality and depth.
Critical Reception
Rumor Has It… received mixed reviews from critics. While the performances and comedic moments were praised, the film was criticized for its uneven tone and reliance on a convoluted plot.
- Rotten Tomatoes gives the film a score of 20% based on 115 reviews, with an average rating of 4.5/10. The consensus states: “Rumor Has It… is a tired romantic comedy with few laughs and little romance.”
- Metacritic scores the film at 35 out of 100, indicating “generally unfavorable reviews.”
Despite the mixed reception, the film has found an audience that appreciates its blend of comedy and heartfelt moments.
Streaming Availability
Rumor Has It…, the film is available on several streaming platforms in the United States. You can stream it on:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Hulu
Additionally, the film is available for rental or purchase on:
- Apple iTunes
- Google Play Movies
- Vudu
Final Thoughts
Rumor Has It… is a romantic comedy that offers a unique twist on the themes of family and identity. While it may not reach the heights of classic rom-coms, its engaging performances and humorous scenarios provide a pleasant viewing experience. Jennifer Aniston’s relatable charm, combined with Kevin Costner’s laid-back charisma and Shirley MacLaine’s sharp wit, make the film enjoyable despite its narrative flaws.
For fans of light-hearted romantic comedies with a touch of introspection, Rumor Has It… is worth a watch. Its exploration of familial secrets and personal growth adds depth to the humor, creating a film that resonates with its audience.
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