Lifelong friends Barb and Star embark on the adventure of a lifetime when they decide to leave their small Midwestern town for the first time – ever.
Not every movie is supposed to be an intellectual, thought-provoking masterpiece. Sometimes you just need some goofy escapism which is why movies like “Stepbrothers,” “Austin Powers,” and the like. “Barb and Star” is exactly that as it hones in on the intricacies that make female relationships different than guy friendships. And as it hones in those little details, it makes fun of and cherishes them. Barb (Annie Mumolo) and Star (Kristen Wiig) finish each other’s sentences, talk in rapid-fire succession as if someone turned up the speed on the turntable and remind us that (most) women, while we look to make ourselves happy, are always concerned about how that will effect others; particularly our besties.
“Barb and Star” bounces all over the place as it adds a sprinkle of raunchy but comedic romance, action thriller, spy caper, and even a musical as Edgar (Jamie Dornan) belts out a little song reminiscent of something out of “Mama Mia.” There are laugh out loud jokes that truly made me belly laugh at the sheer ridiculousness of it all. And with cameos from multiple stars such as Phyllis Smith who gets punished at a strict “talk club” and Damon Wayans Jr. as a thug for the evil Lady Doctor who spills too much information at every possible turn, these actors provide even more levity.
This is a girlfriends’ movie and would make a great girls’ night Galentine gathering with a few cocktails in hand. No, this isn’t going to win any awards, but what it might do is make you laugh. And for me, that’s exactly what I needed.
2 1/2 Stars (and Barb)