Fright Nights: The Addams Family (1991)

When you look back at the many behind the scenes issues, it's amazing that we even got the first 'Addams Family' film, let alone two sequels and an upcoming animated adaptation. The story behind it all can be an article in itself with many switching of the guard, actors, and all that jazz however, we're here to review the finished product. Released in 1991 and directed by Barry Sonnenfeld who would become a big time director with his later blockbuster 'Men in Black'. 'The Addams Family' is no slouch however with solid jokes and visual flair though it is dragged a bit by its mediocre story and weak antagonists.

The story follows the Addams as they attempt to make contact with Uncle Fester, who mysteriously vanished in the Bermuda Triangle twenty five years ago. Wracked with guilt, his younger brother Gomez and his clan are thrilled to see him return, though not all is right as others attempt to steal the Addams' vast fortune. Like I said, it's not that original but to give the scriptwriter credit the rest of the film works out great. The humor perfectly replicates the television series and even some gags from the comic strip. It's appropriately morbid but the family's ignorance and sharp dialogue give it that lighter side as well. Though some may be cautious as the humor is also a little more mature given this is a film and not so restricted but really that's more a personal preference.

Those cast as the family are all perfect and they were all just born to play these roles. They each give add their own unique aspects while keeping with the characters they play. Angelica Huston's Morticia is a particular favorite of mine, as I feel she gets some of the funniest jokes throughout with that sly and quiet demeanor. Christina Ricci is another perfect fit and a lot of future interpretations would follow her more sarcastic and monotone portrayal of Wednesday including the upcoming animated flick. Christopher Lloyd is sadly a bit underused despite being the main connection to the whole story but he's mostly just a henchman for the villains up until the third act where he finally gets something to do. It's understandable given how the story goes, but still you should always use Christopher Lloyd whenever you can if he's in your movie.

And speaking of the villains, it's the biggest drawback for the first 'Addams' film. They're simply con artists who use Uncle Fester to obtain the family's money. Not much else to them really and even the complex aspect of Fester having amnesia is a bit silly and overused. It always seems to be an issue when it comes to the series maybe it comes down to the antagonists are usually normal people offended by the Addams' oddball ways so they seem bland in comparison. 'The Addams Family' should have been nothing but a major disaster due to the insane production but the end result is about as good as they could have done. Luckily, with the 1993 sequel they were able to flesh out the script a bit more and both films would keep the interest in the property alive. It's not as bad as people make it out to be but I do recommend the sequel over this one.

3/5