Director: Anne Fletcher
Stars: Sandra Bullock, Ryan Reynolds
In Cinemas: 18 June 2009 (Australia)

With a title like ‘The Proposal’ you know you’re in for a sappy chick flick- so don’t expect anything more. After a two-year hiatus Sandra Bullock is back doing what she does best, starring in the romantic comedy alongside pretty boy Ryan Reyolds.

Like any other girlie movie, The Proposal is filled with clichés and corny one-liners that may make you say, “oh come on”. But the love-y remarks and quirky humour is what we go see chick flicks for, and The Proposal is a film that you will enjoy more if you leave your boyfriend at home.

This film is not about being smart as it is about laughing out loud but will make you quietly chuckle to yourself the entire time. Sandra Bullock plays the prominent New York book editor Margaret who forces her co-worker Andrew Paxton (Ryan Reynolds) into marrying her, to hopefully avoid deportation back to Canada.

Andrew begrudgingly agrees, and to avoid INS speculation the newly-weds find themselves travelling to Andrew’s hometown in Alaska to meet his parents. The parents (Steenburgen and Nelson) are of course full of life, not to mention Margaret gets to meet the quirky grandmother played by Betty White. Soon, New York City girl Margaret finds herself in a range of awkward and unfamiliar situations in the small Alaskan town.

This girlie film has a mixture of the good, the bad and the “they aren’t serious?” and is what you would expect of any romantic comedy.

The Good:

· Ryan Reynolds – Although Sandra Bullock’s acting skills make her snarky character believable, it is Reynold’s who makes the film worth watching. His stoic looks, superb line delivery and interaction amongst characters that makes us watch his every move.
· Betty White – If there’s any reason to see The Proposal it is to see Betty White deliver her hilarious lines. With one liners like “Do you prefer to be called Margaret or Satin’s mistress?”, and her pop culture antics, she is the star of the film and will more than likely make you miss your own grandmother.
· Scenery – the beautiful trees and lakes of Alaska creates picturesque moments you will not forget. Watching this film will make you want to take that holiday you need.
· Laugh Out Loud Moments – there are some really funny moments in this romantic comedy that will have you falling out of your seat. Some may say these scenes are stupid funny- but hey, if they make you laugh.

The Bad:

· Lack of Chemistry – Some have it onscreen, others don’t and unfortunately this couple don’t pull off the romantic part of the film too well. Although both Bullock and Reynold’s play their roles well, there is something missing. There doesn’t seem to be any chemistry or underlying sexual tension that makes romantic comedies work.
· Clichés Galore – perhaps there are one too many clichés in the film, which may push you over the edge. But remembering it is a romantic comedy about a wedding you should probably be ready for the clichés.

Overall the film is great if you want an easy laugh and a feel good flick. The Proposal is quirky, fun and a little bit sappy but is a great 107 minute reality distraction.