‘Spa Weekend’ Fails to Deliver Laughs in a Predictable Wellness Comedy

The latest offering from the directors of 'Bad Moms,' Jon Lucas and Scott Moore, is a high-concept comedy that seems to be treading water. 'Spa Weekend' takes a stab at satirizing the elitism of wellness culture, yet the humor falls flat, revealing a genre that might just be on its last legs.

Starring a familiar lineup including Leslie Mann, Isla Fisher, Anna Faris, and Michelle Buteau, the film follows four friends on a lavish spa retreat. Fisher, usually known for her comedic roles, plays Mel, a loud and outrageous character reminiscent of Melissa McCarthy. However, the humor quickly turns stale, with predictable antics like a golf cart joyride and a chaotic goat yoga session that fail to evoke genuine laughter.

The characters are mere caricatures: Mann portrays Jane, a tightly wound attorney; Buteau plays Coco, a divorced mother with anger issues; and Faris is Sophie, the timid assistant to an overbearing boss. The interactions between these archetypes lack depth and originality, leaving viewers longing for more dynamic storytelling.

Although the film introduces the Solaris Eden Beach spa, a setting ripe for comedic exploitation, it quickly loses its potential. Jane’s recognition of the superficiality of the spa's pretentious offerings feels insightful, yet the film itself seems to miss the punchline entirely. Isla Fisher’s performance as Mel, while commendable, is too grounded to inject the necessary chaos into the film. Instead of a wild ride, the film feels like a mundane stroll.

As the narrative unfolds, viewers are left questioning the film’s freshness and relevance. While the premise of a spa weekend could lead to hilarious situations, the execution lacks inventiveness and spontaneity. The jokes feel rehearsed, and the film struggles to keep its audience engaged. It’s a sign that the formulaic bad-behavior comedy might be running out of steam.

Distributed by Black Bear Pictures, 'Spa Weekend' reflects a shift in comedy from major studios to indie and streaming platforms. In an era where such films were once mainstream, this latest attempt serves as a reminder that the genre may need a refresh to avoid repeating itself.

Source: variety.com