VCS News Movie Review: 27 Dresses

By VCS Senior Ashley Gonzalez

For this article, I will be reviewing 27 Dresses, a romantic comedy directed by Anne Fletcher and released in 2008. The film stars Katherine Heigl as Jane Nichols, a woman who has attended 27 weddings, and James Marsden as Kevin Doyle, a charming journalist who complicates her perfectly organized life. Rated PG-13, 27 Dresses blends humor, romance, and plenty of wedding chaos, making it a memorable feel-good film.

The movie features strong acting that makes Jane’s frustration both understandable and relatable, especially as she constantly puts everyone else before herself. The plot remains engaging and even surprising at times, particularly when Jane begins to realize how overlooked she has been during her sister’s wedding planning. Overall, the film balances humor and emotion well, making it more than just a typical romantic comedy.

The characters in 27 Dresses are well developed, with noticeable growth by the end of the film. Jane stands out the most because many viewers can relate to being the dependable sister who takes on a motherly role and consistently prioritizes others’ needs. The pacing is well structured, giving each part of the story the right amount of attention and allowing both the emotional moments and comedic scenes to land effectively.

The story follows Jane, who loves helping others and being part of weddings—even if it means sacrificing her own happiness. The film explores how her constant self-sacrifice affects her life and relationships, ultimately showing her journey toward standing up for herself. Watching her growth encouraged me to reflect on whether I make space to care for myself, leaving a meaningful lesson about balance and self-worth.

The movie’s strengths shine through its strong performances, unique take on weddings and self-sacrifice, and memorable scenes that bring the story to life.

While the movie is mostly fun and charming, some characters, like George, feel a bit bland compared to others. Additionally, Kevin’s backstory could have been explored more. However, these minor issues do not take away from the film’s overall enjoyment.

Overall, 27 Dresses is a charming and relatable romantic comedy with strong performances, entertaining visuals, and meaningful life lessons. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys lighthearted romance, relatable characters, and stories about personal growth. I would give it 4.5 out of 5 stars because it’s funny, heartfelt, and leaves a lasting impression without feeling overly predictable.