The movie follows the Portokalos family as they vacation to their recently deceased father's (Michael Constantine) hometown in Greece for a family reunion, coordinated by their cousin and self-appointed mayor Victory (Melina Kotselou). In Greece, Toula (Nia Vardalos) attempts to fulfill her father's death wish -- to deliver his old journal to his childhood friends George (Ektoras Kaloudis), Dimos (Menelaos Ntaflos), and Thanasis (Spyros Kasfiks). However, the discovery of even more new extended family members leads to yet another Greek wedding.
Throughout the film, the landscapes are beautifully captured, showing some very beautiful pictures of rural Greece. We see lush green forests and rolling hills, crystal-clear rivers and cloudless blue skies. Closer to the village, we see a long winding road, cobblestone streets, secret passageways and older, worn buildings that have a rustic charm to them. Several times, we see sunny beaches with white sand. This makes it feel more like a three-dimensional experience than a movie. While fans will miss Grandpa Gus and his amusing ability to connect every word to its Greek root, they will enjoy meeting newer characters such as Toula's daughter, Paris (Elena Kampouris). Also, many familiar characters have returned, including Aunt Voula (Andrea Martin), who thinks she's in charge of everyone else, and Toula's cousin Nick (Louis Mandylor). The soundtrack features upbeat Greek songs, such as the wedding dance. But my favorite part of the movie is all the jokes. Every morning, the family is awakened by a rooster. Cousin Nick hilariously tries to shave his face at the breakfast table. There is one scene where a sheep randomly enters the house before most people are up. An aunt is startled by the sheep, which is right next to her when she wakens, and exclaims that she thought her husband had come back from the dead.
This film reminds us that time with our loved ones is valuable, and we should make the most of it. We only get to live once, so we should live each day to the fullest and appreciate our cherished people every day.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 gets 4.5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 8 to 18, plus adults. The releases in theaters September 8, 2023.
By Ella S., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, Age 14
My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 is a fun comedic film that takes you on an adventure to an authentic small town in Greece.
This film brings the Portokalos family together for the third time and, in this film they are going to their father's hometown for a special reunion. In his last words to his daughter, Toula (Nia Vardalos), he asked her to reconnect with his best friends from childhood and give them his diary. The family embarks on a journey of new discoveries, finding their culture, and connecting with the people around them.
I really enjoyed the beautiful locations in this film. Everything from ocean views, to food, to music, and the Greek culture made me feel as though I was getting swept off my feet and fully emerged into Greece. This really speaks for the film, plus it has such a fun summer aesthetic. Additionally, this movie has the total package of humor and insight. There are many moments of laughter, specifically with Aunt Voula (Andrea Martin) and her fun free spirit. The scenes with Aunt Voula and Toula are such key bonding moments for them; their special relationship to one-another intensified during this trip. I also found this film to be quite the tear-jerker as I was definitely wiping tears from my eyes by the end. There are so many emotions and pure human reactions incorporated into this film which gives it so much life. You can feel the love that the all the family members have for one another, based on how they stick together and believe in each other. Another standout is the storyline. Sometimes sequels can fall flat and feel repetitive. However, this is definitely not the case here! The third time the Portokalos come together to continue their story is exciting, while still staying authentic to who they are and what they believe in.
The message of My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 is to never give up on the power of hope and love. The film does contain some jokes intended for an older audiences, so be forewarned.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 gets 4.5 out of stars and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 releases in theaters September 8, 2023.
Mikella G., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 17
Get ready to yell "Opa!" for My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3! This emotional, but fun movie is definitely the most upbeat of the trilogy, and this particular film holds a special message about family and love.
This film follows Toula (Nia Vardalos), Ian (John Corbett) and the rest of the Portokalos family as they are on their way to a family reunion in their motherland - Greece. As they want to make a tribute to Gus Portokalos, Toula attempts to track down Gus's three best friends from childhood to give them a special gift. Along this journey, the family discovers new and important roots and celebrates many cultures, all while trying to plan the best family reunion ever.
My favorite part of this film is definitely the location. This film is set in Plaka, Athens and it is absolutely breathtaking to see the oceans and the mountains and the small villages; everything is so unique and special. I also love the costumes, especially those worn by Elena Kampouris's character, Paris. They are all so fashionable and I fell in love with their patterns and colors. I also appreciate that they celebrate many different cultures in this film, as it shows that they are open to being diverse and they make sure to include everyone, no matter where someone is from. My favorite character is definitely Toula because, even though she struggles with so much in her life, she is the epitome of resilience.
The message of this film is to be open to new experiences, because you never know how similar you are to others. As the Portokalos family stays in Greece, they find new connections and new friends. Be aware that there is mild profanity, sexual references, and partial nudity.
My Big Fat Greek Wedding 3 gets 5 out of 5 stars from me and I recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. This movie will be released in theaters on September 8, 2023.
By Ari P., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13
KIDS FIRST! Goes Local: Submit a review & win!
Kid Critic video review by MIKELLA GIUSTINO |
Kid Critic video review by RUHI KHAN |
Kid Critic video review by ARIADNA POLANCO |