Family Pack Review: Silly But Thoroughly Entertaining

In Netflix’s Family Pack, a modern-day family is thrust into an unexpected medieval adventure that blends humour, fantasy, and a whole lot of chaos. The film, inspired by the popular card game Werewolves of Miller’s Hollow, starts with the family trying to enjoy a holiday getaway, only to find themselves transported back to the year 1497 due to a mysterious twist of fate. As they navigate the era’s superstitions and fight off fearsome werewolves, they must learn to work together in order to make it back home.

The film has a runtime of 95 minutes.

-No Spoilers-

Family Pack Review

Is Family Pack a little silly? Absolutely. Is it sometimes absurd? Without a doubt. But here’s the thing – it doesn’t try to be anything more than a lighthearted, good time. Based on a popular card game, this movie embraces its fantastical premise and runs with it, offering viewers a comical romp that doesn’t take itself too seriously. This film knows its audience well and delivers an experience that’s refreshingly simple and enjoyable.

When the family starts their holiday by casually playing Werewolves of Miller’s Hollow, they have no idea their game will take them on a real-life journey back to the medieval era. Stuck in 1497 and surrounded by suspicious villagers and terrifying creatures of the night, the family must navigate a world very different from their own. In this setting, they discover new powers, unravel mysteries, and ultimately come to understand the importance of working together as a family unit.

The film gives off a familiar vibe reminiscent of Jumanji and Dungeons & Dragons, though on a smaller scale and with a fraction of the budget. With its medieval setting, Family Pack makes the most of its practical effects and medieval-themed set designs. While the werewolves aren’t revolutionary in their design, they fit well into the story, creating an atmosphere that’s just spooky enough to keep things interesting without veering into horror territory. The film never loses sight of its comedy roots, maintaining a light-hearted tone throughout and delivering plenty of laughs along the way.

The jokes come quickly, and while not all of them land, the film achieves a solid hit rate. When the jokes do hit, they are genuinely funny and often laugh-out-loud hilarious. The writers smartly focus the humour on the family’s cultural clashes with medieval society, creating plenty of opportunities for comedy rooted in misunderstandings and contrasts between modern and ancient values.

One of the film’s biggest strengths is its ensemble cast, who all seem to be having a blast in their respective roles. Jean Reno’s portrayal of the family’s grandpa, who unexpectedly gains super strength, is particularly amusing. Reno plays the role with an infectious enthusiasm, making even the most ridiculous scenes a joy to watch. It’s clear that he’s in on the joke, and his energy helps elevate the film.

Franck Dubosc shines as the family’s bumbling yet lovable father. Dubosc’s portrayal adds warmth and sincerity to the film, making the family’s bond feel authentic even amid the chaos. His character is often clueless and clumsy, but there’s a genuine affection for his family that grounds the story. Bruno Gouery, known for his role in Emily in Paris, also makes a memorable appearance, effortlessly stealing scenes with his comedic timing and charm.

At its core, Family Pack is a film about family unity and resilience. Despite the humour and fantasy elements, the film doesn’t shy away from exploring deeper themes of togetherness and acceptance. The family’s journey isn’t just about surviving werewolves or escaping the past – it’s about learning to trust and rely on one another in unexpected circumstances. The film subtly highlights the importance of embracing differences and working together to overcome challenges.

The narrative’s emphasis on family dynamics adds an emotional layer to the story that prevents it from becoming just another slapstick comedy. The film’s humour is rooted in these dynamics, with each joke and comedic moment contributing to the overall message of unity and teamwork.

Final Thoughts

Family Pack is the kind of movie you can watch with anyone and still have a good time. It doesn’t try to be anything it’s not, and in that simplicity lies its charm. The film knows its limits and works within them, delivering a fun, fantastical adventure that’s easy to follow and thoroughly entertaining. Despite a few predictable moments and the occasional flat joke, the film achieves what it sets out to do – provide an hour and a half of light-hearted escapism. It’s the kind of movie where you can turn off your brain and enjoy the humour.

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