Review of Parental Guidance (2012) by Rob K — 16 Apr 2013

It's easy to understand why the critics were carping all over this well intentioned but poorly conceived fare. Sadly, the two stars act as if they are way past their prime, with Midler mugging for the camera and Crystal acting desperate for a laugh and even some tears, formulas that clearly worked for them in the past.

Major fault is the script that forces laughter out of unfunny set-ups. When it does actually work, PG turns out to be little more than the average family-friendly Disney dramedy but while Parental Guidance wants your approval, it's really nothing but fodder.