Disney’s “Freakier Friday” Delivers Cheesy Fun with a Twist

Disney’s latest release, “Freakier Friday,” revives the beloved body-swapping concept first popularized by the 2003 film starring Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan. Although this sequel may not reach the comedic heights of its predecessor, it offers a nostalgic charm that pays homage to Disney’s signature style. The film is set to entertain audiences with its quirky premise, featuring a new multi-generational twist that includes a four-way body swap.

In this iteration, we find Tess Coleman (Curtis), who is now a sixty-something therapist, grappling with modern family dynamics while attempting to co-parent her rebellious daughter, Anna (Lohan), who has transitioned to a career as a music manager and single mother. Their family life becomes even more complicated when Anna meets Eric Reyes (Manny Jacinto), a widowed father new to Los Angeles. Tensions rise as their teenage children, Harper and Lily, struggle to get along, leading to comedic chaos that only intensifies their blended family situation.

The film’s narrative takes a magical turn when a New Age psychic named Madame Jen, portrayed by Vanessa Bayer, orchestrates the body swap. This results in Anna and Harper switching places, while Tess and Lily experience a similar fate. The mechanics of the swap introduce a variety of humorous scenarios, yet the film’s multiple plotlines often feel overwhelming, overshadowing the character depth achieved in the original film.

While the first film allowed for distinct performances from Lohan and Curtis, this sequel leans into a broader generational conflict. The new characters, played by Julia Butters and Sophia Hammond, do not quite match the range displayed by Lohan in 2003, limiting their comedic potential. The humor often relies on generalizations about different generations, which may dilute the unique character experiences that made the original so memorable.

Director Nisha Ganatra injects a high-energy approach into the film, though the pacing can sometimes feel frantic, as seen in scenes like a chaotic high-school bake sale. Despite the film’s busy nature, there are standout moments, including a dance class led by Chloe Fineman from Saturday Night Live, which delivers some comedic high points.

Nostalgia plays a significant role, with callbacks to the original film and appearances from familiar faces, including a reassuring cameo by Mark Harmon and a humorous twist involving Chad Michael Murray. These elements enhance the film’s appeal, although viewers unfamiliar with the original may miss some of the in-jokes.

Ultimately, while “Freakier Friday” does not replicate the magic of its predecessor, it manages to carve out its own identity through its multigenerational cast and contemporary themes. The film engages with the complexities of family dynamics, offering both laughs and heartwarming moments. It serves as a reminder that time changes our perspectives, even in the face of the familiar.

As audiences flock to theaters, they can expect a blend of laughter, nostalgia, and the inherent challenges of growing up and growing older. While it may not be a cinematic masterpiece, it provides an enjoyable experience for families looking for a lighthearted film that celebrates the ups and downs of family life.