Jamie Lee Curtis Defends 'Freakier Friday': Fires Back at Review Accusing Film of 'Cashing In'
Jamie Lee Curtis, the beloved actress known for her iconic roles, isn't one to shy away from a spirited defense of her work. And she certainly didn't hesitate to respond to a recent review of the highly anticipated sequel, 'Freakier Friday,' which premiered in cinemas this week. The review in question sparked controversy by accusing the film of simply 'cashing in' on nostalgia and highlighting what it deemed 'humiliating scenarios.' Curtis took to social media to directly address the reviewer's critique, sparking a lively online discussion.
For those unfamiliar, 'Freakier Friday' marks a joyous reunion for Curtis and Lindsay Lohan, reprising their roles as mother and daughter Tess and Anna Coleman, respectively, originally introduced in the 2003 classic 'Freaky Friday.' The film picks up years later, with the body-swapping magic returning to complicate their lives once again. The original film, directed by Mark Waters, was a critical and commercial success, beloved for its comedic charm and heartwarming portrayal of a mother-daughter relationship.
The recent review, which has gained traction online, argued that 'Freakier Friday' relies too heavily on the popularity of the original, offering little new beyond a rehash of familiar tropes. The reviewer specifically pointed to certain scenes as being unnecessarily embarrassing for the characters, questioning the film’s creative merit. This prompted a swift and pointed response from Curtis.
Taking to Instagram, Curtis wrote a fierce defense of the film and the creative team behind it. She expressed disappointment with the reviewer's assessment, arguing that the movie is a labor of love crafted with genuine affection for the original and its fans. She emphasized the dedication that went into ensuring the sequel captured the spirit of the first film while also offering a fresh and entertaining experience. Curtis also questioned the reviewer's focus on what they perceived as 'humiliating scenarios,' suggesting that the reviewer may have missed the underlying humor and heart of the film.
“It is baffling and disappointing that a reviewer would take the time to write such a dismissive and frankly, inaccurate assessment of a film made with so much love and care,” Curtis wrote. “We honored the original, we added new layers, and we created a movie that we are incredibly proud of. To reduce it to simply ‘cashing in’ is a profound disservice to everyone involved.”
Lohan, equally enthusiastic about the film's release, has also been actively engaging with fans online, sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses and expressing her excitement over the positive reception. The film has already garnered a strong opening weekend at the box office, suggesting that audiences are eager to revisit the comedic magic of 'Freaky Friday.' The debate sparked by the review highlights the ongoing discussion about sequels and reboots in Hollywood, and whether they can truly live up to the legacy of their predecessors. Regardless, Curtis's passionate defense underscores her commitment to her craft and her respect for the fans who have supported her career for decades. Whether you agree with the review or not, one thing is clear: 'Freakier Friday' has reignited a cultural conversation and brought back a beloved cinematic pairing for a new generation.