1—The script is right on target.  It is consistent with the Meet the Parents (which introduced Gaylord Focker and his future in-laws) and successfully introduces several new characters (i.e., Gaylord’s parents) to further develop the theme of the original.  There are jokes for everyone in this movie.  However, some may not care for the stereotypes presented, some of the jokes or the predictable ending.

2—The movie is brilliantly cast.  Robert DeNiro and Ben Stiller, the protagonists of the movie, are perfect in their respective roles (i.e., Jack Burns and Gaylord Focker).  Dustin Hoffman and Barbra Streisand are perfectly cast as Gaylord’s parents Bernard and Roz Focker.  Dustin and Barbra both resemble Ben Stiller from a facial and physical perspective.

3—The movie is well-acted.  Who new Robert DeNiro would turn out to be a great comedian in addition to one of the best dramatic actors of all time?  Ben Stiller, a comedian by trade, just shines in this role as the awkward male nurse with the strange parents.  Dustin also shows the makings of a comedian and even tries some physical comedy.  Barbra, whose filmography includes a majority of comedies, reprises her usual role as a Jewish funny lady.

In short, this is one of the funniest movies I have seen in years.  I anticipate it will be a huge success given the success of its predecessor, the all-star casting, and more importantly, the fact that is funny.

Of course, this is the Irreverent Guide to Barbra Streisand. So, I know some of you are expecting something more on Barbra.  While Barbra was perfectly cast as Roz Focker, fans need to understand that she is not the star of this movie.  DeNiro and Stiller are clearly the stars of this movie.  They have more screen time and have the better jokes.  In addition, Dustin also has some of the better jokes and was willing to get a little more physical.  Barbra relies mostly on her unusual talking voice to deliver her comedy.  And let me not forget the baby who has several scene stealers in this one.

While I think this is a good vehicle for Streisand as a supporting actress, it is not a part that furthers her as a leading actress.  So she delivers her comedy lines well--we already knew that.  This is clearly not a challenging part for Barbra. Still, it shows that there is a supporting actress in her.

• Barbra with Star Ben Stiller
• Barbra with Supporting Cast Dustin
• Barbra with Dustin Again
• Barbra with Star Robert DeNiro
• Barbra with Star Robert DeNiro
• Barbra, the Supporting Actress, in orange

Attached are several premier photos:

• Barbra and Husband at Premier
• Barbra at Premier
• Barbra at Premier