by Henry Pham
If you are looking for an easy movie to watch without violence, foul language, or anything related to them, then my best guess is Premarital, a lighthearted comedy-drama movie directed by Robert Ingraham. This comedy-drama offers a wholesome experience. Premarital centers on takes place somewhere in the Midwestern U.S., and focuses on Pastor Stewart Whitaker, who learns his daughter’s fiancé isn’t a believer just days before their wedding. He then recruits his well-meaning family to convert his daughter’s nonbelieving fiancé before their wedding day. However, his schemes and plans spiral into comedic mishaps that turn this seemingly perfect Christian family upside down in small-town America.
Jim O’Heir, best known for NBC’s Parks and Recreation, is well cast as Pastor Stewart Whitaker. His experience in comedy allows him to portray bumbling yet kindhearted characters with authenticity. His thoughtful character development is evident throughout the film, making it easy to root for him even when his plans fail. The supporting cast—including Mark Hapka, Kelley Jakle, Meredith Thomas, Cameron Cowperthwaite, Cathy Shim, Igby Rigney, Abby Pierce, Steve Hanks, and Grover McCants—brings strong chemistry and a sense of authenticity to the family dynamic, maintaining a consistently light tone.
Several favorite scenes featuring Jim O’Heir’s comedic performance stand out. This film’s plotline elicits smiles and light laughter rather than loud outbursts. Its greatest strength lies in its wholesome tone and messages about faith. It is rare to find a modern comedy that entertains without relying on CGI, visual effects, strong language, or adult content. As a grounded family comedy, the film instead uses naturalistic cinematography to highlight the charm of its small-town setting. The pacing is intentionally slow, allowing the story to unfold with the characters. Warm lighting reinforces the film’s themes of family, faith, community, and grace.
Running approximately 92 minutes long, Premarital brings a light-hearted plotline to a Christian-based comedy movie. I enjoyed the cast performances (mostly Jim O’Heir’s) and their comedic roles. It is not entirely perfect, but it is relaxing and pretty much laid-back. Because of this, it is safe to say that this film is an easy watch for almost anyone, regardless of their age, especially those who need a huge break from watching sequels, superhero films, big-budget films, remakes, and reboots. You should give this movie a watch, especially since it is set to be released in theaters before being available on digital and streaming platforms.
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