How a viral Craigslist ad for wedding dates became a Hollywood comedy
In short: In 2013, brothers Mike and Dave Stangle posted a humorous Craigslist ad seeking dates for their cousin's wedding. The post went viral, eventually securing them both a book deal and a 2016 feature film. The resulting movie, starring Zac Efron and Anna Kendrick, turned their real-life antics into a chaotic cinematic farce.
The film adaptation of the Stangle brothers' story follows two liquor salesmen whose disruptive behavior forces their parents to demand they bring dates to their sister Jeanie's wedding in Hawaii. The brothers turn to the internet, posting an ad that gains national attention, including an appearance on The Wendy Williams Show. This attracts Tatiana and Alice, two women who, after losing their jobs, decide to manipulate the brothers to secure a free vacation.
Production for the film took place between May and August 2015, primarily at the Turtle Bay Resort in Oahu, Hawaii. The casting process involved significant preparation; Adam DeVine, who played Dave, noted his insecurity about appearing alongside Zac Efron, leading him to train intensely to match his co-star's physique. Aubrey Plaza’s performance as Tatiana received specific critical acclaim, with reviewers highlighting her ability to portray a character engaged in elaborate deception.
Upon its July 2016 release, the film received mixed reviews, holding a 38% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. While critics noted the premise was sporadically hilarious, it struggled to fully capitalize on its potential. Commercially, the film performed modestly, grossing $77 million worldwide against a production budget of approximately $33 million. Despite the chaotic onscreen events—ranging from accidental injuries at a wedding to accidental drug use—the film remains a notable example of how digital-age viral moments are translated into traditional studio entertainment.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Mike and Dave Need Wedding Dates
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