Why a 2008 romantic comedy about a maid of honor became a box-office success
In short: When a wealthy New York playboy realizes he is in love with his best friend, he takes on the unconventional role of maid of honor to stop her wedding. Despite harsh critical reception, the film became a global financial success, grossing over 100 million dollars during its theatrical run.
Released in May 2008, Made of Honor follows Tom Bailey Jr., a man who discovers his feelings for his long-time friend, Hannah, only after she becomes engaged to a Scottish Duke. The film, directed by Paul Weiland, features Patrick Dempsey as the lead, who was juggling his commitments to the television series Grey's Anatomy during the tight 26-day production schedule. To accommodate this, the script was often improvised on set, including a notable scene where Dempsey juggles plates, which was added spontaneously on the day of filming.
The narrative structure leans heavily into romantic comedy tropes, often drawing comparisons to My Best Friend's Wedding. Critics were largely unimpressed, with many labeling the script formulaic and the humor derivative. Reviewers from outlets like The Guardian and Slant Magazine criticized the film for its lack of realistic character development and its reliance on slapstick, while others noted the film's preoccupation with themes of fragile masculinity. Despite these unfavorable reviews—holding a 15% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes—the film found an audience.
Commercially, the project was a success. Produced on a budget of 40 million dollars, it earned 46 million dollars in North America and 60 million dollars internationally, totaling 106.4 million dollars worldwide. It debuted at number two at the box office, trailing behind Iron Man. While it failed to secure a win at the 2008 Teen Choice Awards in the bromantic comedy category, its performance highlights the enduring, if polarizing, appeal of the genre during that era. The film remains a case study in how star power and a familiar premise can drive box office returns even when critical consensus is overwhelmingly negative.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Made of Honor
- Also: Wikidata — Made of Honor · CC0
- Also: Wikidata — Made of Honor · CC0
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