The Collegian

Issue date: 2/7/08 Section: Arts

Katherine Heigl shines as Jane in "27 Dresses," a cute chick flick about a girl who's always a bridesmaid, never a bride.

Jane is madly - and covertly - in love with her boss, who has (alas!) fallen for her younger sister.

Heigl's acting steals the show. At first, she plays the perfect female pining after a secret crush. Then, she masters the heartbroken act with enough flair to make even a cynic's heart ache.

Heigl's interpretation of the role lends zest to a character that could otherwise be flat and, quite frankly, pathetic. Jane, devoid of any legitimate romantic prospects, bases her esteem on her ability to be the perfect bridesmaid. She reads the "Commitments Page" of the newspaper every day, cutting out and saving her favorite clips. She can serve as maid-of-honor for two brides in one night. While these personality quirks could have easily come across as unrealistic and maudlin, Heigl makes them both believable and interesting.

She brings out comedic and tragic elements in her character, bringing to life a girl not too different than many in the audience.

Heigl's finest moments happen when she acts opposite James Marsden, who plays Kevin, a reporter writing a profile about the perpetual bridesmaid. (And, of course, he engages in romantic conflict of interest.)

Heigl and Marsden banter with perfect timing, punching each line hilariously.

Also worth mentioning, Melora Hardin (better known as Jan to any "Office" viewer) makes a cameo as Kevin's editor. Hardin keeps the pace moving in scenes that could otherwise make the plot lag.

But beyond the acting, the film has enough spunk to entertainingly fill an evening out. The plot features typical chick flick fodder. It's predictable. That said, the script pops with scenes any bridesmaid can relate to.

Take, for instance, the dresses chosen for Jane by tasteless brides-to-be. The costume designer took full advantage of the comedic potential. Butt bows, extraneous fluffs, and rainbow colors abound. And, in a recurring joke, brides comment about how they chose the dress because it can be worn again- a fallacy any bridesmaid knows all too well.

All in all, "27 Dresses" won't inspire deep thought or life changes, but it is a fun movie to see on a slow Friday night.

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