What to Expect When You’re Expecting

What to Expect When You're Expecting feels like a blend of sitcom sketches more than a cohesive movie. While some moments bring genuine laughter, it ultimately fails to deliver a truly engaging narrative.

Five Couples, One Journey

The film centers on the chaotic lives of five couples facing the rollercoaster of impending parenthood. From celebrity couple Holly (Jennifer Lopez) and Marco (Chace Crawford) to food-truck rivals Jules (Cameron Diaz) and Evan (Matthew Morrison), each duo grapples with their own set of challenges. Whether dealing with unexpected pregnancies or adoption dilemmas, the characters' interactions provide a mixed bag of comedic and dramatic moments. Unfortunately, the many storylines often feel disjointed, making it hard to connect with any single narrative thread.

Cast That Misses the Mark

The ensemble cast features notable names like Elizabeth Banks and Anna Kendrick, but the sporadic character development leaves much to be desired. While Jennifer Lopez and Cameron Diaz manage to deliver some decent performances, others like Brooklyn Decker as the naive Skyler feel underwritten and one-dimensional. This lack of depth in characters means some potentially interesting story arcs simply fall flat. The film could have benefited from a more focused approach, giving each character more nuance and growth.

Bright, Blah Visuals

Directed by Kirk Jones, the film's visual style is as uninspired as its script. There's an over-reliance on bright colors and predictable setups, reminiscent of a commercial rather than a feature film. The editing also lacks finesse; abrupt transitions often disrupt the flow between intertwined stories. While the moments of humor shine through, they often seem isolated in a sea of clichés, making it hard to stay engaged throughout the runtime. A more daring directorial approach might have elevated the material.

Amusing but Frustrating

Watching What to Expect When You're Expecting can be a frustrating experience. Moments of genuine humor are often overshadowed by predictable plots and tired tropes. The film tries to tackle serious themes of parenthood, but the execution feels superficial at best. Many viewers might find themselves waiting for it to pick up steam, only to be met with lackluster resolutions. It's a film that strives for heart but often feels like a string of sitcom scenes rather than a cohesive narrative.