Movie Review - The War with Grandpa

The War with Grandpa *** (out of 5) (PG) Robert DeNiro’s track record in comedies has been more erratic than with his esteemed career of dramatic outings. That differential is evident in the quality gap between his excellent pairing with Billy Crystal for Analyze This, and its unfortunate sequel three years later, Analyze That. The same can be said for the two Fockers comedies as textbook cases of large sequel dropoff. The low point was his role as Fearless Leader in the live-action tarnishing of a beloved cartoon series, The Adventures of Rocky & Bullwinkle. This one splits the difference, leading to a reasonably entertaining mix of schmaltz and laughs.

DeNiro is retired from his construction business, recently widowed and truly depressed. His daughter (Uma Thurman) persuades him to move in with her family rather than wallow in his sadness. Unfortunately, that’s two parents with a son and two daughters in a three-bedroom house. The tweener son (Oakes Fegley) has to give up his room and move into the ratty unfinished attic. He loves granddad, but not enough to graciously cede his domain. DeNiro isn’t happy about upsetting the lad, but sees no option and tries his best to blend in with the others.

The plot is driven by the boy formally declaring war on Grandpa, leading to a mostly-funny escalating series of pranks and reprisals within agreed rules of engagement. Both are assisted by their respective trios of friends; DeNiro’s surprisingly consists of Cheech Marin, Christopher Walken and Jane Seymour. Given their small amount of screen time, the three were obviously more motivated by the chance to work with a living legend than the juiciness of their roles. The script contains a few complementary subplots involving the rest of the family, as well.

Some parents might question the rating, since the pranks raise the “kids don’t try this at home” flag. If there’s a demonic streak in any of your progeny, you might not want them to draw inspiration from these antics. Otherwise, it’s fairly standard family fare with relatable conflicts and resolutions, and not a bad way to spend your together time. (10/9/20)