Common Sense Media Review
By Emily Ashby
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Sisters say "I do" to matters of the heart.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
David E. Kelley's romantic dramedy THE WEDDING BELLS centers on the struggles of three sisters -- Annie (KaDee Strickland), Jane (Meet the Parents' Teri Polo), and Sammy (Sarah Jones) -- to take their wedding planning business to the top of its game by mastering the art of smoothing the ruffles of jittery brides-to-be. Too often, though, looking on as a happy couple says their vows reminds them of the uncertainties in their own love lives. Although Jane is solidly married to the company's COO, Russell (Benjamin King), constant advances from the exotic head chef make her wonder what sparks might be lacking in her predictable love life. Emotionally reserved and still dealing with her parents' divorce, Annie enjoys the sexual banter she shares with company photographer David (Michael Landes) but won't let it lead to anything. Youngest sis Sammy likes the fact that wedding rehearsals bring in handsome groomsmen for her choosing, while singer Ralph (Chris Williams) just wants something more satisfying than his repetitive wedding repertoire.
Is It Any Good?
Stirring up laughs from a virtual laundry list of (sometimes clichéd) wedding mishaps -- the wedding singer gets laryngitis, a bride's mother pays off the minister to include Jesus in a Jewish ceremony, a runaway bride returns for one more shot at taking the plunge -- The Wedding Bells is fun for grown-up viewers, especially those who've planned (and lived through) a wedding of their own. But keep tweens out of earshot, since sexual references and jokes are central to the series' laughs.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about marriage. Does this series cast marriage in a good or bad light? How so? Teens, do you think you'll get married? When do you think the right time would be? Is there a "right" time to get married? What messages does the show send about relationships and love? Which characters are the most sympathetic? Why? Families can also discuss running a business. What kind of business would you run if you could? How would you deal with difficult customers? Would you want to be your own boss? Why or why not?
TV Details
- Premiere date : March 7, 2007
- Cast : KaDee Strickland , Sarah Jones , Teri Polo
- Network : Fox
- Genre : Comedy
- TV rating :
- Last updated : September 19, 2019
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