Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar
Movie Trailer
Release Date
February 12, 2021
Genre
Comedy
Cast & Crew
- Kristen Wiig as Star / Sharon Gordon Fisherman
- Annie Mumolo as Barb
- Jamie Dornan as Edgar Pagét
- Damon Wayans Jr. as Darlie Bunkle
- Wendi McLendon-Covey as Mickey Revelet
- Vanessa Bayer as Debbie
- Fortune Feimster as Pinky
- Phyllis Smith as Delores
Director
Josh Greenbaum
Other Movies Director is Known For
- Becoming Bond (2017)
- Too Funny to Fail (2017)
- The Short Game (2013)
Producer
- Kristen Wiig
- Annie Mumolo
- Jessica Elbaum
- Will Ferrell
- Adam McKay
Writer
- Kristen Wiig
- Annie Mumolo
Budget
$20 million
Production Company
- Gloria Sanchez Productions
- Lionsgate
Running Time
107 minutes
Languages
English
Maturity Rating
PG-13
Content Advisory
- Sexual innuendo
- Language
- Mild violence
- Some drug use
Movie Story
Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar is a quirky, surreal comedy that follows lifelong friends Barb (Annie Mumolo) and Star (Kristen Wiig) as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime. After being laid off from their mundane jobs in their small Midwestern town, Barb and Star decide to leave behind their comfortable but uneventful lives and take a trip to the sunny paradise of Vista Del Mar, Florida.
Unbeknownst to Barb and Star, their vacation destination is the center of a villainous plot. Sharon Gordon Fisherman (also played by Kristen Wiig), a mysterious and eccentric villain, has concocted a scheme to unleash a deadly swarm of killer mosquitoes on the residents of Vista Del Mar as revenge for her troubled past. She sends her lovesick henchman, Edgar Pagét (Jamie Dornan), to set her plan in motion, but things take an unexpected turn when Edgar meets Barb and Star.
As Barb and Star immerse themselves in the fun and frivolity of their vacation, they unwittingly become entangled in Sharon’s plot. Along the way, they discover new aspects of themselves, experience romance, and engage in a series of hilarious and bizarre adventures, including an epic musical number performed by Edgar.
The film is a whimsical and colorful celebration of friendship, joy, and the power of embracing life’s unexpected twists. With its offbeat humor, over-the-top characters, and absurdist style, Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar offers a feel-good escape into a world of pure silliness and fun.
Special Effects
The special effects in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar are primarily used to enhance the film’s surreal and comedic elements. The movie features vibrant, exaggerated visuals that contribute to the whimsical and fantastical tone, including colorful settings, outlandish costumes, and quirky CGI effects, such as the swarms of killer mosquitoes and Sharon’s over-the-top villainous lair. The effects are intentionally playful, aligning with the film’s lighthearted and absurdist humor.
Box Office Performance
Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar was released directly on video-on-demand (VOD) platforms due to the COVID-19 pandemic, bypassing a traditional theatrical release. Despite this, the film garnered positive reviews and quickly developed a cult following for its unique sense of humor and the chemistry between Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo. The film’s success on streaming platforms and its appeal as a feel-good comedy during a challenging time contributed to its popularity.
Filming Locations
- Cancún, Mexico
- Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA
Notable Quotes
- “We’re Barb and Star. We’re here to find our shimmer.” – Barb
- “I’m not ‘technically’ supposed to be talking to you, but I can’t help it. It’s just who I am.” – Edgar Pagét
- “I’m going to drink so much tonight, I don’t know if I’ll be able to find my own face!” – Star
Behind-the-Scenes
Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo, who previously collaborated on the hit comedy Bridesmaids, reunited to create Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, bringing their unique brand of humor to the screen. The film was a passion project for both, with Wiig and Mumolo not only writing the screenplay but also starring as the title characters. The film’s campy, 1980s-inspired aesthetic and zany, unpredictable plot were influenced by the comedies they loved growing up, and they worked closely with director Josh Greenbaum to bring their vision to life.
The film’s production included shooting on location in Cancún, Mexico, which served as the stand-in for the fictional Vista Del Mar, and in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The cast and crew embraced the film’s offbeat tone, with Jamie Dornan, in particular, gaining attention for his comedic turn and memorable musical performance in the song “Edgar’s Prayer.”
Awards
- Critics’ Choice Super Awards: Nominated for Best Actress in a Science Fiction/Fantasy Movie (Kristen Wiig)
- Hollywood Critics Association Midseason Awards: Nominated for Best Comedy
Final Verdict
Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar is a delightfully wacky and escapist comedy that celebrates friendship, fun, and the absurdities of life. Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo’s chemistry and comedic timing are the heart of the film, bringing their charming and endearing characters to life. The movie’s playful tone, colorful visuals, and offbeat humor make it a joyful and entertaining experience for those looking for a lighthearted escape. With its quirky style and memorable moments, Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar stands out as a feel-good comedy that invites viewers to let loose and enjoy the ride.
IMDb Rating
6.3/10