When I first saw the trailers for this movie, I thought it might be cute, but I had reservations because everything I've seen Kate Hudson in since "Almost Famous" has been quite disappointing. This one, she finally picked a winner. It didn't hurt that her costar is John Corbett. The two of them actually have pretty good chemistry, and the three kids are cute without being annoying. There were lots of tears in this one...more tears than laughs, maybe. It is a great "chick flick". I will have to wait for the DVD to see the end credits because the theater flubbed up and cut off the film right after the final music crescendoed and you could tell the credits were coming. How annoying. Anyway, I digress. Not sure why this is rated PG13, because I don't remember anything blatantly offensive. Again, I wonder why filmmakers can't just be a little more "delicate" and get those PG ratings. There are so few movies we can enjoy as a family...this one I will probably allow my 9 year old to see. Many people won't because of the rating. Too bad. I recommend this one.
109 Reviews
Bridge and tunnel
jotix10030 May 2006
New Yorkers that happen not to live in the island of Manhattan are seen as "Bridge and tunnel", a derisive term used by residents of the island to indicate their superiority to their less sophisticated, or perhaps less affluent neighbors. Never mind that most Manhattanites are transplants from other places themselves!
Imagine Helen Harris' reaction when she is given custody of her three nephews and has to give up her Village apartment because it's too small and has to relocate to Astoria! Garry Marshall, a director with a lot of films under him, is at the helm of this comedy that follows the adventures of a woman trying to cope with what destiny had in store for her, even though she never set out to be in the position she has to face. The screen play is by Jack Amiel and Michael Begler, two men that has dealt in cuteness in previous works.
Helen, who works for a modeling agency in Manhattan, finds herself in a predicament when her sister Lindsay and her husband die tragically. She has been picked to raise two girls and a boy and she is ill prepared to deal with the situation. Instead of naming the more domestic sister, Jenny, as the guardian, Lindsay knew something that the other two siblings didn't know in trusting her three children to Helen.
"Raising Helen" deals with the trials and tribulations of Helen as she comes to terms with her new situation. She must give up her fabulous job, with all its perks, and seek employment in a "previously owned" car lot where she is able to prove her worth. At the same time, she has to deal with her new family in ways she didn't expect. She also finds a good man in the Lutheran pastor who falls in love with her from the moment she enrolls the kids in his school.
Kate Hudson is a beautiful woman with an angelic face that keeps the viewer recalling her mother, Goldie Hawn. She is as good a comedienne, as her mother was in her prime. The best thing in the film, or in any other film where she is cast, is Joan Cusack. She steals the film with her Jenny, a well meaning person who feels bypassed for a role she was meant to play all along. Ms. Cusack is a treasure in this movie. John Corbett, is the hunky Lutheran pastor who falls in love with Helen. Helen Mirren and Felicity Huffman has small roles as Helen's boss Dominique and her sister Lindsay.
"Raising Helen" while predictable was targeted for a certain viewer who loves this type of comedy. Under the sure hand of Garry Marshall it makes for a pleasant time at the movies.
Imagine Helen Harris' reaction when she is given custody of her three nephews and has to give up her Village apartment because it's too small and has to relocate to Astoria! Garry Marshall, a director with a lot of films under him, is at the helm of this comedy that follows the adventures of a woman trying to cope with what destiny had in store for her, even though she never set out to be in the position she has to face. The screen play is by Jack Amiel and Michael Begler, two men that has dealt in cuteness in previous works.
Helen, who works for a modeling agency in Manhattan, finds herself in a predicament when her sister Lindsay and her husband die tragically. She has been picked to raise two girls and a boy and she is ill prepared to deal with the situation. Instead of naming the more domestic sister, Jenny, as the guardian, Lindsay knew something that the other two siblings didn't know in trusting her three children to Helen.
"Raising Helen" deals with the trials and tribulations of Helen as she comes to terms with her new situation. She must give up her fabulous job, with all its perks, and seek employment in a "previously owned" car lot where she is able to prove her worth. At the same time, she has to deal with her new family in ways she didn't expect. She also finds a good man in the Lutheran pastor who falls in love with her from the moment she enrolls the kids in his school.
Kate Hudson is a beautiful woman with an angelic face that keeps the viewer recalling her mother, Goldie Hawn. She is as good a comedienne, as her mother was in her prime. The best thing in the film, or in any other film where she is cast, is Joan Cusack. She steals the film with her Jenny, a well meaning person who feels bypassed for a role she was meant to play all along. Ms. Cusack is a treasure in this movie. John Corbett, is the hunky Lutheran pastor who falls in love with Helen. Helen Mirren and Felicity Huffman has small roles as Helen's boss Dominique and her sister Lindsay.
"Raising Helen" while predictable was targeted for a certain viewer who loves this type of comedy. Under the sure hand of Garry Marshall it makes for a pleasant time at the movies.
Funny; good family film, some tender moments.
jeabraham29 November 2004
I loved Kate Hudson in Almost Famous, and a few people told me this film was good, so we rented it.
We did enjoy it. It had some very funny moments, and some very tender moments. Kate Hudson was good, but don't expect "Almost Famous" style brilliance out of her in this one. The rest of the cast performs about the same -- good performances, nothing stellar. Except perhaps Joan Cusack; her performance was very good.
If you have kids, say, about ten years old and older this is a good film to watch together with them -- it introduces them to a few teen and adult issues (dating, death, etc.) and shows the sorts of tough decisions that parents sometimes have to make. And you'll have lots of fun laughing together too.
We did enjoy it. It had some very funny moments, and some very tender moments. Kate Hudson was good, but don't expect "Almost Famous" style brilliance out of her in this one. The rest of the cast performs about the same -- good performances, nothing stellar. Except perhaps Joan Cusack; her performance was very good.
If you have kids, say, about ten years old and older this is a good film to watch together with them -- it introduces them to a few teen and adult issues (dating, death, etc.) and shows the sorts of tough decisions that parents sometimes have to make. And you'll have lots of fun laughing together too.
Lacklustre
Gordon-112 October 2006
This film is about a young woman unexpectedly becoming a mother of three because her sister died in a traffic accident.
I find the script weak and unconvincing. The script tries to examine the difficulty of transition from singlehood to motherhood, family tension, trust and childcare issues. The end result is that the film lack direction and wander around aimlessly. It fails to be funny, romantic or dramatic.
Acting has to be applauded though. Joan Cusack does a good job to convey a spectrum of emotions, especially envy. Hayden Panettiere is also very convincing as a rebellious young girl.
Overall, I find this film boring and lacklustre.
I find the script weak and unconvincing. The script tries to examine the difficulty of transition from singlehood to motherhood, family tension, trust and childcare issues. The end result is that the film lack direction and wander around aimlessly. It fails to be funny, romantic or dramatic.
Acting has to be applauded though. Joan Cusack does a good job to convey a spectrum of emotions, especially envy. Hayden Panettiere is also very convincing as a rebellious young girl.
Overall, I find this film boring and lacklustre.
A fun, sweet movie, with real values
bruce-28123 October 2004
This is a must see movie! The whole family will enjoy it. Kate Hudson is enjoyable to watch. John Corbett was a good leading man for her. Good writing, directing, acting. Joan Cusack makes it a complete sweet dramatic comedy. The kids were well chosen for this, they are all good actors! Abigail Breslin is such a cutie in this. I liked the Pastor being portrayed as a regular guy, a real person, with normal desires, Yet he was still a good pastor, a spiritual leader that could be trusted. This movie reminds us that getting back to the things in life that are important is what makes our lives rich & happy.
Enjoyable but predictable
dyneshv15 January 2005
Warning: Spoilers
Enjoyable but predictable - That is something you could say about most of Garry Marshall's movies. He continues in the same vein here with Raising Helen, a comedy about a woman who is asked to care for her sister's children after her sister and her husband are killed in a car accident.
Kate Hudson plays the title role of Helen Harris, an executive assistant at a Modelling Agency, whose life is turned upside down by the news that her sister and her brother-in-law were killed in an accident. As Helen and her other sister Jenny (Joan Cusack) come to terms with their loss, they are surprised to learn that their sister had arranged for her 3 kids to be raised by Helen should anything happen to her. Jenny, seemingly a perfect mom to her 2 children with another one on the way, is aghast at the decision, while Helen decides to make an attempt at raising them and ends up giving up her social life trying to cope.
The rest of the movie is predictable - We see Helen trying to mix her work and her responsibilities and some humorous situations occur. The tone of the film is rather light, not trying to be anything other than a comedy, though we do feel some sympathy for Helen for all that she goes through in trying to raise 3 kids. She tries to balance all this with a sudden romance with Pastor Dan (John Corbett), who can apparently date even though he's a pastor because he's Lutheran and who also happens to be the Principal of the School where Helen sends the kids. The influence of producer Ashok Amritraj can be seen in the form of the Indian Neighbours - It's nice to see more Indian characters in mainstream cinema these days; the Janitor from The Terminal is another example.
Kate Hudson plays her part well, ably supported by a nice cast with the always-great Joan Cusack and an underused John Corbett. The characters of the 3 Kids, who form the core of the story, were also well acted; they seemed believable and had good chemistry with Hudson. All in all, it was a nice way to spend an evening and it was a fun movie. As I said, it doesn't pretend to be anything other than a typical Garry Marshall comedy, but then that is probably why I enjoyed it. I gave it a 7/10.
Kate Hudson plays the title role of Helen Harris, an executive assistant at a Modelling Agency, whose life is turned upside down by the news that her sister and her brother-in-law were killed in an accident. As Helen and her other sister Jenny (Joan Cusack) come to terms with their loss, they are surprised to learn that their sister had arranged for her 3 kids to be raised by Helen should anything happen to her. Jenny, seemingly a perfect mom to her 2 children with another one on the way, is aghast at the decision, while Helen decides to make an attempt at raising them and ends up giving up her social life trying to cope.
The rest of the movie is predictable - We see Helen trying to mix her work and her responsibilities and some humorous situations occur. The tone of the film is rather light, not trying to be anything other than a comedy, though we do feel some sympathy for Helen for all that she goes through in trying to raise 3 kids. She tries to balance all this with a sudden romance with Pastor Dan (John Corbett), who can apparently date even though he's a pastor because he's Lutheran and who also happens to be the Principal of the School where Helen sends the kids. The influence of producer Ashok Amritraj can be seen in the form of the Indian Neighbours - It's nice to see more Indian characters in mainstream cinema these days; the Janitor from The Terminal is another example.
Kate Hudson plays her part well, ably supported by a nice cast with the always-great Joan Cusack and an underused John Corbett. The characters of the 3 Kids, who form the core of the story, were also well acted; they seemed believable and had good chemistry with Hudson. All in all, it was a nice way to spend an evening and it was a fun movie. As I said, it doesn't pretend to be anything other than a typical Garry Marshall comedy, but then that is probably why I enjoyed it. I gave it a 7/10.
A Movie Movie
shellz55919 January 2005
When i say this is a movie movie, what i mean is it's one of those movies perfect for what i would say movies are made for. Movies in my opinion are best for sitting in front of TV with a bunch of friends or family and just watching having a laugh and having a good time. This does that.
This movie is about a girl named Helen, who lives an out there life trying to raise kids. She tries so hard to do the best job but it's real tough, as she know nothing about kids, or being a mother.
as i said before this is a good relaxing movie movie. I would recommend it to any one one wanting nothing to intense, or boring, or dramatic.
This movie is about a girl named Helen, who lives an out there life trying to raise kids. She tries so hard to do the best job but it's real tough, as she know nothing about kids, or being a mother.
as i said before this is a good relaxing movie movie. I would recommend it to any one one wanting nothing to intense, or boring, or dramatic.
definitely doesn't raise the bar, but...
Rogue-321 June 2004
If you're in the mood some night for a movie that doesn't challenge your intellect or emotions in any way, Raising Helen is the film for you. Charming enough because of Kate Hudson, whose smile alone is worth the price of admission - and she smiles A LOT in the course of the movie. A LOT. And she has a lot to smile about, considering that her entire life is turned upside down but she manages to make the most serious changes without even mussing her hair up. It's a fantasy, of course, bearing no resemblance to real life, which is always fun sometimes, and there's the wonderful Helen Mirren, the great Joan Cusack, and the always-attractive John Corbett to add interest to the proceedings.
Garry Marshall, of course, isn't big on subtlety, but to his credit the film never gets heavy-handed or stupid, and there is a subtle part - at the beginning of the film, Helen (Kate's character) smokes like a chimney, but after she's saddled with her sister's children, we see her wearing a nicotine patch, but nothing is ever mentioned about it. I appreciated that. For an evening out, you could do worse.
Garry Marshall, of course, isn't big on subtlety, but to his credit the film never gets heavy-handed or stupid, and there is a subtle part - at the beginning of the film, Helen (Kate's character) smokes like a chimney, but after she's saddled with her sister's children, we see her wearing a nicotine patch, but nothing is ever mentioned about it. I appreciated that. For an evening out, you could do worse.
utterly artificial slice-of-life comedy
Buddy-5117 January 2006
"Raising Helen" is a formulaic romantic comedy that makes you wonder when Kate Hudson will again find a role that will actually allow her to stretch herself as an actress, fulfilling the promise she made half a decade ago in "Almost Famous." Since then it's been mostly downhill for Hudson, and the ironically titled "Raising Helen" does nothing to help arrest or reverse that slide.
Hudson plays Helen Harris, a young woman whose budding career in the fashion industry is suddenly cut short when her sister and brother-in-law are killed in a car accident, leaving Helen to raise their three children. Things go from bad to worse, as the once carefree Helen struggles with the trials and tribulations and life-changing vicissitudes of unplanned motherhood.
This is a typical Garry Marshall film in that, even when it tries to deal with "real world" issues such as death, loss, grief, sibling rivalry, teenage angst etc., it does so in only the most superficial, glossy and unconvincing of terms. Heck, there's even a hunky, hockey-playing Lutheran minister on hand - the kind one can only find in movies - to provide spiritual as well as romantic comfort for those times when the going gets to be just a bit too tough for the harried guardian.
The performances are uniformly uninteresting, but I choose to blame the shallow writing rather than the actors in this case. It's particularly painful to see actresses of the caliber of Felicity Huffman and Joan Cusack cast adrift in this sea of "chick flick" platitudes and feel-good movie clichés - but everyone in this film suffers a similar fate.
Hudson plays Helen Harris, a young woman whose budding career in the fashion industry is suddenly cut short when her sister and brother-in-law are killed in a car accident, leaving Helen to raise their three children. Things go from bad to worse, as the once carefree Helen struggles with the trials and tribulations and life-changing vicissitudes of unplanned motherhood.
This is a typical Garry Marshall film in that, even when it tries to deal with "real world" issues such as death, loss, grief, sibling rivalry, teenage angst etc., it does so in only the most superficial, glossy and unconvincing of terms. Heck, there's even a hunky, hockey-playing Lutheran minister on hand - the kind one can only find in movies - to provide spiritual as well as romantic comfort for those times when the going gets to be just a bit too tough for the harried guardian.
The performances are uniformly uninteresting, but I choose to blame the shallow writing rather than the actors in this case. It's particularly painful to see actresses of the caliber of Felicity Huffman and Joan Cusack cast adrift in this sea of "chick flick" platitudes and feel-good movie clichés - but everyone in this film suffers a similar fate.
We've raised three children who lost only one parent...
Radio_Lady24 May 2004
... sorry to say it was not a very happy or easy experience.
`Raising Helen' stars the vivacious Kate Hudson. Her performance is the best thing in this movie. While the movie is supposed to be a comedy-drama rated PG-13, I'm not sure who this movie is for. The story is too saccharine and simplistic. We're supposed to believe that there can be a comic upside to three kids losing both their parents.
Kate Hudson plays Helen Harris, the lucky aunt who is named as guardian for her two nieces and her nephew. These children sustain the terrible tragedy of losing both parents in a traffic accident. To her credit, Hudson keeps us involved as she moves through the trials and tribulations of this slight script. This may be billed as a `feel good' movie, but it really only sustains that feeling until you think about it more deeply, or have some experience with children who have suffered parental loss in real life.
More in a minute about what I don't like about `Raising Helen' but first a few positives. Joan Cusack turns in an excellent performance as Jenny, Helen's sister and the aunt who was passed over for guardianship. She delivers a finely sculpted character who, at one and the same time, wants to support Helen but is pained by not having been the chosen aunt. Helen Mirren does well as Dominique, Helen's employer and the rest of the cast, including the kids and John Corbett as the love interest, do what is expected of them.
So what's wrong here? What's wrong is that three kids losing two loving parents in car accident is an experience that these kids will be lucky to survive without serious psychological damage. The plot attempts to tell us that this is just a comical challenge for their young winsome aunt. The movie is dishonest because it tries to convince us that it's too bad that Mom and Dad are dead -- but, with someone like Aunt Helen, all will be well.
So -- Kate, you did a good job -- except in your decision to act in this flick. Director Garry Marshall, you did a good job except in deciding to make this movie. My advice to the audience is -- go to this film only if you want to see a movie based on a false premise. In retrospect, this film will leave you feeling like you drank the soda pop enthusiastically, but the fizz was already gone. Rate it a 6/10.
`Raising Helen' stars the vivacious Kate Hudson. Her performance is the best thing in this movie. While the movie is supposed to be a comedy-drama rated PG-13, I'm not sure who this movie is for. The story is too saccharine and simplistic. We're supposed to believe that there can be a comic upside to three kids losing both their parents.
Kate Hudson plays Helen Harris, the lucky aunt who is named as guardian for her two nieces and her nephew. These children sustain the terrible tragedy of losing both parents in a traffic accident. To her credit, Hudson keeps us involved as she moves through the trials and tribulations of this slight script. This may be billed as a `feel good' movie, but it really only sustains that feeling until you think about it more deeply, or have some experience with children who have suffered parental loss in real life.
More in a minute about what I don't like about `Raising Helen' but first a few positives. Joan Cusack turns in an excellent performance as Jenny, Helen's sister and the aunt who was passed over for guardianship. She delivers a finely sculpted character who, at one and the same time, wants to support Helen but is pained by not having been the chosen aunt. Helen Mirren does well as Dominique, Helen's employer and the rest of the cast, including the kids and John Corbett as the love interest, do what is expected of them.
So what's wrong here? What's wrong is that three kids losing two loving parents in car accident is an experience that these kids will be lucky to survive without serious psychological damage. The plot attempts to tell us that this is just a comical challenge for their young winsome aunt. The movie is dishonest because it tries to convince us that it's too bad that Mom and Dad are dead -- but, with someone like Aunt Helen, all will be well.
So -- Kate, you did a good job -- except in your decision to act in this flick. Director Garry Marshall, you did a good job except in deciding to make this movie. My advice to the audience is -- go to this film only if you want to see a movie based on a false premise. In retrospect, this film will leave you feeling like you drank the soda pop enthusiastically, but the fizz was already gone. Rate it a 6/10.
Save yourself some time - skip this movie!
njinsa2004-imdb1 December 2005
This movie doesn't deserve a long review, so I'll be brief: bad script + bad acting = bad movie. Typical Hollywood romantic comedy, which is neither romantic, nor funny.
There's no interesting plot, actors are so poorly directed that it's obvious, and the pace of the movie is so slow that it feels twice as long as it really is.
I made a mistake of starting to watch it just because my wife rented it, without checking IMDb first. If you're reading this, you're already ahead... ;-)
The only part somewhat worth watching is the opening scene, which focuses on Kate Hudson's awesome pair of legs. The rest of the movie can be safely skipped...
There's no interesting plot, actors are so poorly directed that it's obvious, and the pace of the movie is so slow that it feels twice as long as it really is.
I made a mistake of starting to watch it just because my wife rented it, without checking IMDb first. If you're reading this, you're already ahead... ;-)
The only part somewhat worth watching is the opening scene, which focuses on Kate Hudson's awesome pair of legs. The rest of the movie can be safely skipped...
Thank Goodness.....something new!
fierypoeticgirl11 November 2007
Warning: Spoilers
What a refreshing film. I like the plot and acting so well, I purchased this movie. I believe Kate has her mother's acting abilities, and as usual, Joan Cusack is adorably funny when she tells her niece's boyfriend, B.J., that "If he even looks her way again, she will bury his ass so deep into the Earth's core that it will incinerate his sorry ass!" Good plot, good supporting actors, and finally, a film the whole family can watch. I think that the decision of her deceased sister leaving the kids to a somewhat care-free sister was a good twist. You get to see Kate's character grow up and face responsibilities. I would recommend this film to anyone who has a child who's lost a loved one to show him/her that life can and does go on with happy endings.
reminiscent of "My Six Loves" with Debbie Reynolds
GeeAMouse-112 June 2004
This film is very reminiscent of "My Six Loves" with Debbie Reynolds. Cute, warm and funny. It is definitely a chick flick! In fact, in the theater when I viewed the film there was only one gentleman who was accompanying his wife. Most of the crowd was 30 or over, but thought that this would be a wonderful movie for young girls if only to view how Helen had to grow up and learn responsibility, no matter how much her niece would "hate" her.
I must say I wasn't ready for the movie to end. I got caught up in the story of what family is and should be. Joan Cusack did a wonderful job playing the older sister who had never wanted to be the mom figure to her younger sisters but had taken on the job and become the "perfect mom." Her scene in the motel when she had to be the bad guy and break up the prom date that almost went too far was perfect. Every woman in the theater laughed hardily either from the experience of doing the same or once being the girl who's mom had done it to her.
This film will become one of those that I will add to my collection and be sure to watch on those rainy winter Sunday afternoons (Okay maybe a few nice Sundays too ... after all John Corbett is very cute to look at!)
Guys! Chances are you aren't going to like this film all that much.... there isn't any blood and guts... but how do you feel about a nice used lime green Lincoln with low miles? No, I'm not going to explain that one, you will have to watch the film for that!
I must say I wasn't ready for the movie to end. I got caught up in the story of what family is and should be. Joan Cusack did a wonderful job playing the older sister who had never wanted to be the mom figure to her younger sisters but had taken on the job and become the "perfect mom." Her scene in the motel when she had to be the bad guy and break up the prom date that almost went too far was perfect. Every woman in the theater laughed hardily either from the experience of doing the same or once being the girl who's mom had done it to her.
This film will become one of those that I will add to my collection and be sure to watch on those rainy winter Sunday afternoons (Okay maybe a few nice Sundays too ... after all John Corbett is very cute to look at!)
Guys! Chances are you aren't going to like this film all that much.... there isn't any blood and guts... but how do you feel about a nice used lime green Lincoln with low miles? No, I'm not going to explain that one, you will have to watch the film for that!
Absurd and Corny Hollywoodian Tale
claudio_carvalho27 February 2006
The single and successful executive of the fashion world, Helen Harris (Kate Hudson), becomes the guardian of her two nieces and one nephew after the death of her sister and her brother-in-law. She moves from Manhattan to Queens, and faces difficulties trying to raise the children.
"Raising Helen" is another absurd and corny Hollywoodian tale, or fairytale, or s**t tale. There are some few funny moments, but the story has an absolute lack of logic and coherence. The changing of the character of Helen, from a fashionable independent single woman of Manhattan developing her successful career in the fashion world into a suburban mother of stepson and stepdaughters is one of the most ridiculous and corny I have ever seen. I like Joan Cusack, Hector Elizondo, Kate Hudson and John Corbett, I tried to like this movie, but the screenplay is a shallow unbelievable crap. My vote is four.
Title (Brazil): "Um Presente Para Helen" ("A Gift For Helen")
"Raising Helen" is another absurd and corny Hollywoodian tale, or fairytale, or s**t tale. There are some few funny moments, but the story has an absolute lack of logic and coherence. The changing of the character of Helen, from a fashionable independent single woman of Manhattan developing her successful career in the fashion world into a suburban mother of stepson and stepdaughters is one of the most ridiculous and corny I have ever seen. I like Joan Cusack, Hector Elizondo, Kate Hudson and John Corbett, I tried to like this movie, but the screenplay is a shallow unbelievable crap. My vote is four.
Title (Brazil): "Um Presente Para Helen" ("A Gift For Helen")
Well, at least Kate Hudson is charming
TheMovieMark28 May 2004
There's a scene early in the movie where Kate convinces a guy to let her friend into a club even though her friend isn't on the "list." Kate leans over, puts her head on the dude's chest, writes the girl's name, and comments, "Now she's on the list." Worked like a charm. Come on, how many guys can resist that? What? Oh, I mean besides any of the male designers on "Trading Spaces." Kate pretty much does the same thing with this movie. She smiled, blinked her eyes at me, giggled a little, put her head on my chest, and convinced me to keep watching.
This isn't a great movie, but Kate's smile and personality are enough to keep it from being a chore to watch. However, if you were to replace Kate with someone like Kirsten Dunst, then I would've been out of the theater in about 15 minutes.
The story isn't really original, and to no one's surprise it's pretty predictable as well. Carefree gal is loving life. Tragedy intervenes and forces her to change lifestyle. Someone (older sister, Joan Cusack) is there to provide conflict. Carefree gal decides she truly CAN handle her new life. Tears are shed, hands are held, hugs are in groups, and "Kumbaya" is figuratively sung. Roll credits.
If you're expecting loads of laugh, then you're likely to be disappointed. This movie focuses more on the dramatic, especially near the end where things just start to get way too sappy for any guy not named Richard Simmons. But there are some cute and funny moments sprinkled throughout, most as a direct result of Kate's charm. However, John Corbett (who plays a Lutheran pastor) has a great line when he tells Kate, "I'm a sexy man of God, and I know it."
Joan Cusack does a pretty good job as well. Kate is the coolest aunt in the world, while Joan is the most motherly. You see, Joan's the aunt who'll kick your butt and make you mad, but she's the kind of person kids need around 'em. She has one of the best scenes in the movie when she shows up at a hotel and totally lays the smack down on a little punk who took her 15-year-old niece (Hayden Panettiere) there during prom. The older women in the movie theater clapped and cheered. Little boys dream about being superheroes, baseball players, and firemen. Little girls dream about being princesses, actresses, and dating Kirk Cameron (well, at least Stephanie did). But this scene is what mothers and aunts dream about.
If you want to see a much better movie dealing with a similar "my lifestyle will completely change because of this tragedy" theme, then I recommend "Jersey Girl." But those of you who are in dire need of some big-screen Kate Hudson should be satisfied as long as you're not looking for a movie to challenge you or have you guffawing in your seat.
THE GIST
"Raising Helen" is truly a chick flick, and it should definitely please its intended female audience. But guys, if you like Kate Hudson, then it's not the worst movie to sit through if you wanna score some points by taking your lady to see this. If you're the type of person who can cry during a long-distance phone commercial then this is movie gold for you.
This isn't a great movie, but Kate's smile and personality are enough to keep it from being a chore to watch. However, if you were to replace Kate with someone like Kirsten Dunst, then I would've been out of the theater in about 15 minutes.
The story isn't really original, and to no one's surprise it's pretty predictable as well. Carefree gal is loving life. Tragedy intervenes and forces her to change lifestyle. Someone (older sister, Joan Cusack) is there to provide conflict. Carefree gal decides she truly CAN handle her new life. Tears are shed, hands are held, hugs are in groups, and "Kumbaya" is figuratively sung. Roll credits.
If you're expecting loads of laugh, then you're likely to be disappointed. This movie focuses more on the dramatic, especially near the end where things just start to get way too sappy for any guy not named Richard Simmons. But there are some cute and funny moments sprinkled throughout, most as a direct result of Kate's charm. However, John Corbett (who plays a Lutheran pastor) has a great line when he tells Kate, "I'm a sexy man of God, and I know it."
Joan Cusack does a pretty good job as well. Kate is the coolest aunt in the world, while Joan is the most motherly. You see, Joan's the aunt who'll kick your butt and make you mad, but she's the kind of person kids need around 'em. She has one of the best scenes in the movie when she shows up at a hotel and totally lays the smack down on a little punk who took her 15-year-old niece (Hayden Panettiere) there during prom. The older women in the movie theater clapped and cheered. Little boys dream about being superheroes, baseball players, and firemen. Little girls dream about being princesses, actresses, and dating Kirk Cameron (well, at least Stephanie did). But this scene is what mothers and aunts dream about.
If you want to see a much better movie dealing with a similar "my lifestyle will completely change because of this tragedy" theme, then I recommend "Jersey Girl." But those of you who are in dire need of some big-screen Kate Hudson should be satisfied as long as you're not looking for a movie to challenge you or have you guffawing in your seat.
THE GIST
"Raising Helen" is truly a chick flick, and it should definitely please its intended female audience. But guys, if you like Kate Hudson, then it's not the worst movie to sit through if you wanna score some points by taking your lady to see this. If you're the type of person who can cry during a long-distance phone commercial then this is movie gold for you.
A Generic Romantic Comedy
lewlew1058 November 2004
This movie is one of those movies that is pleasant and enjoyable, but forgettable by the next day. And that is probably what it was made to be- a generic romantic comedy made for generic romantic comedy viewers. It wasn't made to make people think, or to be left open to interpretation, or to show the acting potential of any actor or actress. This movie was made to be a simple money-maker, to appeal to a large audience.
This movie is mainly targeted to teenage girls, obviously, as they can relate to both Helen and Audrey, the oldest daughter's situation. While not being profound or laugh-out-loud funny, this movie is not unacceptably horrible or extraordinarilly wonderful. It is simply, a movie-like movie- a character doing his or her thing, plus a shameless promotion of Kate Hudson.
So when you watch Raising Helen, don't expect phenomenal acting, dialouge, or story-lines. Just expect okay acting, okay dialouge, and okay story lines. That's it- this movie is okay. I would give it 6.5 stars out of ten.
This movie is mainly targeted to teenage girls, obviously, as they can relate to both Helen and Audrey, the oldest daughter's situation. While not being profound or laugh-out-loud funny, this movie is not unacceptably horrible or extraordinarilly wonderful. It is simply, a movie-like movie- a character doing his or her thing, plus a shameless promotion of Kate Hudson.
So when you watch Raising Helen, don't expect phenomenal acting, dialouge, or story-lines. Just expect okay acting, okay dialouge, and okay story lines. That's it- this movie is okay. I would give it 6.5 stars out of ten.
Baby Boom For The 21st Century with Spoilers
nickbassett19818 January 2005
Warning: Spoilers
Gary MArshall at his best can produce some sweet romantic comedies that tick every box of the genre (Pretty Woman). HOWever, at his worst, he can take that formula, and allow insipid excuses for rom coms to filter through into the system (ie Runaway Bride).
With Raising Helen, Marshall has gathered some of his old favourites from the aforementioned movies, the formidable Joan Cusack and the reliable HEctor Elizondo and replaced Julia Roberts and Richard Gere with the fresh faced Kate Hudson and John Corbett. Wisely done, for the audience is used to seeing Corbett with another blonde, curly haired do gooder in Sex in The City, and so it is quite easy to see the connection between the romantic leads. However the romance in the movie provides a backdrop in a movie that Marshall himself describes as his tribute to motherhood.
Helen (a perky and likable Hudson), a high flying assistant in a fashion company finds her world torn upside down when her sister and brother in law are killed in a car crash, and she is left custody of her 2 nieces and nephew. During the course of domestication, Helen predictably finds support and love in the strangest places along the way. Joan Cusack of course puts in another layered performance full of comedy and empathy, outstripping anybody else who dares act alongside her, this having a slightly detrimental effect on the less experienced Hudson. However, Hudson does hold her own effectively and tries her best to bring to life a script that is quite reminiscent of Diane Keaton's Baby Boom; Successful career woman who gets saddled with kid(s), struggles to cope, moves to new area, falls in love etcetera etcetera. Maybe it is an unfair comparison but Raising Helen unfortunately falls somewhat below the marker held by its predecessor and the romance again seems to depend on the audience's familiarity with Sex and The City's Carrie and Aidan. I find it hard to believe that Corbett was cast for his charisma and unique talent. He doesn;t bring anything extra to the film, which is a shame as the character could have been a little more punchy and been more of a match for Helen. Instead he comes across as downtrodden and under the thumb. You kinda want Helen to get it back on with bubble wrap model.
So Raising Helen seems to lack its own identity. Relying on a trusted formula, trusted actors and seen before stories, it does come across as a safe film which is harmless enough and pleasant to watch but with no real bite and lacking in imagination
With Raising Helen, Marshall has gathered some of his old favourites from the aforementioned movies, the formidable Joan Cusack and the reliable HEctor Elizondo and replaced Julia Roberts and Richard Gere with the fresh faced Kate Hudson and John Corbett. Wisely done, for the audience is used to seeing Corbett with another blonde, curly haired do gooder in Sex in The City, and so it is quite easy to see the connection between the romantic leads. However the romance in the movie provides a backdrop in a movie that Marshall himself describes as his tribute to motherhood.
Helen (a perky and likable Hudson), a high flying assistant in a fashion company finds her world torn upside down when her sister and brother in law are killed in a car crash, and she is left custody of her 2 nieces and nephew. During the course of domestication, Helen predictably finds support and love in the strangest places along the way. Joan Cusack of course puts in another layered performance full of comedy and empathy, outstripping anybody else who dares act alongside her, this having a slightly detrimental effect on the less experienced Hudson. However, Hudson does hold her own effectively and tries her best to bring to life a script that is quite reminiscent of Diane Keaton's Baby Boom; Successful career woman who gets saddled with kid(s), struggles to cope, moves to new area, falls in love etcetera etcetera. Maybe it is an unfair comparison but Raising Helen unfortunately falls somewhat below the marker held by its predecessor and the romance again seems to depend on the audience's familiarity with Sex and The City's Carrie and Aidan. I find it hard to believe that Corbett was cast for his charisma and unique talent. He doesn;t bring anything extra to the film, which is a shame as the character could have been a little more punchy and been more of a match for Helen. Instead he comes across as downtrodden and under the thumb. You kinda want Helen to get it back on with bubble wrap model.
So Raising Helen seems to lack its own identity. Relying on a trusted formula, trusted actors and seen before stories, it does come across as a safe film which is harmless enough and pleasant to watch but with no real bite and lacking in imagination
illuminating DVD commentary
zimbo_the_donkey_boy7 July 2005
I've never seen a Kate Hudson flick before. I enjoy Garry Marshall's sitcoms o.k. but I just borrowed this from my library due to my running out of things to borrow. I would have been happier if Joan Cusack had been used in a bigger and wackier part but I agree with others that she was needed, in her nonzany part here, to carry it. -- Although IMDb doesn't make an issue of DVDs' bonus features being quite another matter than how good the original film was, that's my whole point here -- that the director's commentary is very good. I have been in film societies; I have studied film-making a bit (though, no, I'm not a filmmaker.) I have borrowed many DVDs and listened to their bonus tracks. Some have been illuminating for showing that the directors and producers had no understanding of film-making (which explained why the flicks were as bad as they were.) Some filmmakers seemed sharp but were unwilling to do more than toss out a tiny tidbit here-and-there, leaving most of the commentary tracks blank. Actors' tracks are often interesting but of course not educational. :) The vast bulk of DVD alternate tracks seem like the participants were forced to speak and wouldn't spend one second more than the two hours (or whatever) to think about what they were saying. -- However Garry and the writers put plenty of effort into making rewatching this movie and watching alternate takes and deleted scenes to be fun! He throws in lots of funny cracks of about the level of his TV shows' and movies' humor but I'm sure that makes the average people happy, and I enjoyed them, too. In between those he (and the writers) told lots of stories about making the film, of the sort you hear on (some) other DVDs. On top of all that, he explains WHY they did lots of things and made lots of the decisions (discussed in more depth than typical DVD comments of simply "this scene was cut because it wasn't needed.") Surely this'll be the most the average person has ever heard about film-making, yet Garry kept it interesting. I wish more DVDs had bonus features like this, rather than their usual tossed-off fluff.
Good mix between romance and family values
sean_da_pol19 October 2006
Kate Hudson is just adorable. This movie enhances her status as an enjoyable and funny leading lady. Let's hope she doesn't dwell on this type of movie though.
The kids are cute as well, except for the boy. He just really annoys the hell out of me. They should cast him as a little psychopath in his next movie, then he'd be cool again.
Joan Cusack delivered yet another great performance. The character just really suits her, bitter and sad, but ultimately right and still caring.
What I really liked about the movie though was not the portrayal of the priest by John Corbett, but the incorporation of this type character into a romantic comedy. Nowadays, religion is such a big deal. But in the movie, the "holy" angle of being a priest is neither explored nor exploited, giving way for the viewer to just enjoy the romance unfolding.
"Raising Helen" is an ideal movie for a "date", family evening and even Sunday school movie afternoon.
The kids are cute as well, except for the boy. He just really annoys the hell out of me. They should cast him as a little psychopath in his next movie, then he'd be cool again.
Joan Cusack delivered yet another great performance. The character just really suits her, bitter and sad, but ultimately right and still caring.
What I really liked about the movie though was not the portrayal of the priest by John Corbett, but the incorporation of this type character into a romantic comedy. Nowadays, religion is such a big deal. But in the movie, the "holy" angle of being a priest is neither explored nor exploited, giving way for the viewer to just enjoy the romance unfolding.
"Raising Helen" is an ideal movie for a "date", family evening and even Sunday school movie afternoon.
Very predictable. Fine for families with pre-teens. As much as I hate to use the term it is a chick flick
spockwillow6 July 2006
Warning: Spoilers
Without Joan Cusak, this film is a 3. Kate is cute but that is not enough. The concept is almost absurd. The only conflict is that who gets the kids. No tragedy or difficult conflict beyond the deaths at the beginning. This movie really should have been rated PG as nothing remotely offensive occurs that an 8 year old could not view. The whole script was predictable from the 20 minute mark. This movie is a waste of three talented actors as the script is very lacking, and even when it hits on some salient points it flounders. For example the scene at the hotel on prom night was a serious miss. Unless you have young children and want to have the conversation about what happens if mommy and daddy die then I recommend saving the 2 hours and find something else to do.
Boring and unimaginative
Scorching2 February 2005
Warning: Spoilers
There aren't many points that U can praise about this film. The story was unimaginative and lackluster. It was boring and unimaginative, The many different sub-plots did not have much cohesion and felt unnecessary. Even though this movie was packaged as a comedy there were only a few mildly amusing scenes which were just too far of each other to have any lasting effect.
What is it with Kate Hudson and romantic comedies?? Surely she is not trying to take the throne away from Meg Ryan. I thought she did a good enough of a job in How To Lose a Guy In Ten Days, but in this one she didn't perform as she should. Perhaps the script and plot line had something to do with it. I think it's high time that she get more diverse roles. She had such a promising start to her career it's a shame she has yet to come up with a good follow-up. I also didn't think there was much of a chemistry between the two lead actors.
What is it with Kate Hudson and romantic comedies?? Surely she is not trying to take the throne away from Meg Ryan. I thought she did a good enough of a job in How To Lose a Guy In Ten Days, but in this one she didn't perform as she should. Perhaps the script and plot line had something to do with it. I think it's high time that she get more diverse roles. She had such a promising start to her career it's a shame she has yet to come up with a good follow-up. I also didn't think there was much of a chemistry between the two lead actors.
Decent Movie with good intentions but it is too long
christian12320 January 2005
Kate Hudson is Helen Harris, an agent at one of New York's top modeling agencies, who finds herself caring for three children after her sister and brother-in-law are killed in a car accident. Helping her cope are her sister (Cusack) and the good-looking pastor and principal at the kids' school, played by John Corbett.
Raising Helen is a harmless film with good intentions but it suffers from a long running time. While the premise is pretty good, Raising Helen probably would have worked better as a sitcom. The story and the characters could have developed better. Instead, the characters seemed kind of empty and there were a bunch of subplots that went nowhere. The movie tries to tackle too much and it doesn't work out very well. Even if the film had just focused on one thing, it still wouldn't have worked since the whole premise affects a lot of aspects of life. Gary Marshall does his best with this character driven dramedy and he gets a few things right. The family scenes are pretty memorable and engaging. They don't feel forced nor are they too sentimental.
The acting was good but not great. Kate Hudson gives a good performance as Helen. It was engaging to watch her on screen and it was hard to hate her character. Joan Cusack steals the film as Jenny. Her performance was pretty good and effective. Hayden Panettiere was okay as Audrey. I can't stand Spencer Breslin at all and he gives a really weak performance. All of his dramatic scenes are pretty bad as well. Sadly, he gets out acted by his sister and her performance wasn't half bad actually. John Corbett was kind of bland, nothing special.
The running time is a long two hours and the film becomes kind of dull after awhile. The reason for this is because there were too many pointless scenes and subplots. The film is also not very funny. It was supposed to be a dramedy but the switches of tone in the film are kind of awkward. The ending was pretty effective and memorable. The movie is really predictable though. Even if you miss half an hour of it, you can still predict what will happen. In the end, Raising Helen has a bunch of nice ideas and intentions that would have worked better in a sitcom. It should make for a decent rental though. Rating 5/10
Raising Helen is a harmless film with good intentions but it suffers from a long running time. While the premise is pretty good, Raising Helen probably would have worked better as a sitcom. The story and the characters could have developed better. Instead, the characters seemed kind of empty and there were a bunch of subplots that went nowhere. The movie tries to tackle too much and it doesn't work out very well. Even if the film had just focused on one thing, it still wouldn't have worked since the whole premise affects a lot of aspects of life. Gary Marshall does his best with this character driven dramedy and he gets a few things right. The family scenes are pretty memorable and engaging. They don't feel forced nor are they too sentimental.
The acting was good but not great. Kate Hudson gives a good performance as Helen. It was engaging to watch her on screen and it was hard to hate her character. Joan Cusack steals the film as Jenny. Her performance was pretty good and effective. Hayden Panettiere was okay as Audrey. I can't stand Spencer Breslin at all and he gives a really weak performance. All of his dramatic scenes are pretty bad as well. Sadly, he gets out acted by his sister and her performance wasn't half bad actually. John Corbett was kind of bland, nothing special.
The running time is a long two hours and the film becomes kind of dull after awhile. The reason for this is because there were too many pointless scenes and subplots. The film is also not very funny. It was supposed to be a dramedy but the switches of tone in the film are kind of awkward. The ending was pretty effective and memorable. The movie is really predictable though. Even if you miss half an hour of it, you can still predict what will happen. In the end, Raising Helen has a bunch of nice ideas and intentions that would have worked better in a sitcom. It should make for a decent rental though. Rating 5/10
Raising Helen
mhb_025015 May 2005
This movie was a nice surprise. It speaks to the young, single career women who think they have it all.
It has a lesson, and not all movies do. We learn the importance of family and how hard it is to raise children. But the resounding message that is sent is that sometimes we think we know what we want, then when a life-altering experience happens, we rethink what we originally thought.
I loved the script writing in this movie-- very entertaining and intelligent. I thought the acting was superb.
I think kate hudson was so natural and endearing. A dumb-blonde? No... this woman is the woman to watch for... move over Nicole Kidman...you have serious competition here.
It has a lesson, and not all movies do. We learn the importance of family and how hard it is to raise children. But the resounding message that is sent is that sometimes we think we know what we want, then when a life-altering experience happens, we rethink what we originally thought.
I loved the script writing in this movie-- very entertaining and intelligent. I thought the acting was superb.
I think kate hudson was so natural and endearing. A dumb-blonde? No... this woman is the woman to watch for... move over Nicole Kidman...you have serious competition here.
A Decent Popcorn Flick!!
mohdjad702 August 2014
Warning: Spoilers
Raising Helen is a beautiful film which takes care of a very sensitive topic in our society of raising someone's children whom you have known very well. It is one of those films. It tells the story of a free spirited woman (Helen) who works hard and enjoys her life to the full. But due to the calamitous death of her sister and brother-in-law she gets chosen to be the legal guardian of their children instead of her other sister who is unlike her. The story goes on by how Helen copes with the situation to try to become a successful working single mom.
Kate Hudson as Helen gives an outstanding performance. I never did like her that much, always thought she was overrated nonetheless this acting has made me a fan of her and I am looking forward to her next appearance in Wish I Was Here (2014).
Coming to the child stars, Abigail Breslin as Sarah does the best among the others. It is good to see her getting transformed into a teen star from a child one. Hayden Panettiere as Audrey accomplished her task well in this movie but is not great and Spencer Breslin as Henry is a notch down from both of them as he couldn't get some expressions right in my point of view.
Joan Cusack as Jenny the other sister does well as a supporting actor which is certainly expected from her. John Corbett as Pastor accomplishes at providing the humorous moments needed in the film and Helen Mirren has a minor role, however a good one.
Largely the film felt a little rushed to me although it already stands at 119 minutes, I think other characters should have been developed more and added emotional touch could also be given to it. Nevertheless, it's a decent popcorn flick that can be viewed with your family on a weekend.
Overall it's a 7/10 from my side.
Kate Hudson as Helen gives an outstanding performance. I never did like her that much, always thought she was overrated nonetheless this acting has made me a fan of her and I am looking forward to her next appearance in Wish I Was Here (2014).
Coming to the child stars, Abigail Breslin as Sarah does the best among the others. It is good to see her getting transformed into a teen star from a child one. Hayden Panettiere as Audrey accomplished her task well in this movie but is not great and Spencer Breslin as Henry is a notch down from both of them as he couldn't get some expressions right in my point of view.
Joan Cusack as Jenny the other sister does well as a supporting actor which is certainly expected from her. John Corbett as Pastor accomplishes at providing the humorous moments needed in the film and Helen Mirren has a minor role, however a good one.
Largely the film felt a little rushed to me although it already stands at 119 minutes, I think other characters should have been developed more and added emotional touch could also be given to it. Nevertheless, it's a decent popcorn flick that can be viewed with your family on a weekend.
Overall it's a 7/10 from my side.
S10 Reviews: Raising Helen (2004)
suspiria109 April 2006
Kate Hudson inherits her sister's three kids when the parents die in a car crash. Romantic comedy and child-rearing clichés resume. Formulaic and not all that funny 'Raising Helen' does have a few funny moments but in the end seems tired and uninspired. Hudson does a decent job in the lead role as the conflicted sister who is barely older than the oldest child as she makes the usual adjustments while trying to date the children's principal / Pastor and track down the eldest daughter complete with hormone nuclear cushion. Joan Cusack was kinda annoying as Hudson's sister but in a good way. 'Helen' is your standard romantic comedy with many bouts of déjà vu.
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
