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Parents' Guide to

Muriel's Wedding

By Sierra Filucci, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 16+

Unconventional comedy weds Aussie wit with mature themes.

Movie R 1995 106 minutes
Muriel's Wedding Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this movie.

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age 18+

Based on 1 parent review

Belle H
Belle H Adult
July 15, 2019
age 18+

Quirky adult fun, with a dash of drama, too.

Muriel Heslop (Toni Collette, in her first-ever movie role) is a dumpy 22-year-old Queenslander, whose dreams of becoming successful in life -- no matter the methods used, or the costs involved -- belies her depressing surroundings. Psychologically abused by her domineering and corrupt politician father (the late Bill Hunter), and unwanted even by the other girls in her age-group, plucky Muriel nonetheless sets about changing her life -- by making a new friend (Rachel Griffiths), moving to the Big Smoke (Sydney, the City of Brides), finding a job, and meeting a bloke -- or two. Muriel does achieve her goal -- getting married (her idea of success) -- only for things to go sour, once tragedy occurs, and reality kicks in. People who have dealt with bullying and a low self-esteem, will definitely root for anti-heroine Muriel, as she struggles to become an assertive and responsible woman, who is ready to take charge of her life.

This title has:

Great messages
Too much swearing
Too much drinking/drugs/smoking
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

Muriel is a small-town Australian girl with low self esteem. She's awkward, chubby, and has an almost childlike approach to the world. But without a true sense of herself, Muriel finds herself hanging out with people who treat her badly. When Muriel meets Rhoda (Rachel Griffiths), an old classmate, on a clandestine vacation, they take off to Sydney to make their way in the world. Though Muriel still lives through Rhoda -- going to clubs and flirting with guys -- she makes progress toward becoming her own person. After Rhoda gets sick, Muriel finds a way to live out her dream of a fairy tale wedding, even though the guy is only in it for the immigration benefits. When her family situation turns tragic, she's shaken out of her fantasy world and becomes determined to stop lying to herself and others.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (1 ):
Kids say (1 ):

Like so many Australian films, MURIEL'S WEDDING takes an unconventional approach to filmmaking -- both in its characters and its narratives. Muriel is flawed in so many ways and makes terrible choices throughout the film. As one awful friend tells her, "You have no dignity, Muriel." But despite the droopy mouth and terrible fashion choices, viewers see Muriel's unquenchable passion for life, her romantic dreams, her gutsy attempts to be someone special. This film is a poignant and still hilarious examination of how young people, especially girls, navigate the minefields of family, friends, media, and their own dreams.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about feelings of worthlessness or low self-esteem. What was Muriel's wedding obsession all about? Why did she invite those girls to be her bridesmaids?

  • What kinds of messages did Muriel receive from her family about her self worth? What does she realize in the end?

Movie Details

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