Milestone Years
- 15th Anniversary: April 28, 2026
- 20th Anniversary: April 28, 2031
- 25th Anniversary: April 28, 2036
- 30th Anniversary: April 28, 2041
Inspiration Behind the Movie
Kristen Wiig and Annie Mumolo, who co-wrote the screenplay, drew inspiration from their real-life friendship and personal wedding experiences. They wanted to create a female-driven comedy that was both laugh-out-loud funny and emotionally relatable. The film was also meant to break the stereotype that women in comedies had to be polished and put-together.
You Might Not Know
- Melissa McCarthy’s Husband Plays the Air Marshal – Ben Falcone, McCarthy’s real-life husband, plays the air marshal she flirts with on the plane.
- The Iconic Food Poisoning Scene Almost Didn’t Happen – Studio executives were hesitant about including the now-famous dress shop meltdown, but it became one of the film’s most memorable moments.
- Kristen Wiig Was Nervous About the Love Story – She initially didn’t want a romance in the movie, fearing it would overshadow the comedy and friendship themes.
- Megan’s Puppy Hoard Was Improvised – Melissa McCarthy’s character takes home multiple puppies from Lillian’s bridal shower, a moment that wasn’t in the script but became a fan favorite.
- Broke Records for Female-Led Comedies – Bridesmaids was one of the highest-grossing R-rated comedies of all time and proved female-driven comedies could dominate at the box office.
Food Ideas
- Cupcake Decorating Station – A nod to Annie’s baking passion.
- Brazilian BBQ Skewers – Inspired by the disastrous restaurant scene.
- Pink Champagne Cocktails – Perfect for a bridal-themed celebration.
- Chocolate Fountain with Dippables – Inspired by the extravagant bridal shower.
- “Airplane Snack Packs” – Small, humorously packaged bags of peanuts and pretzels.
Release Date: April 28, 2011
Summary:
Annie, a down-on-her-luck pastry chef, is asked to be the maid of honor for her best friend, Lillian. But when she clashes with the bride’s wealthy and seemingly perfect new friend, Helen, things spiral hilariously out of control. With an over-the-top bachelorette party, a disastrous dress fitting, and plenty of awkward moments, Bridesmaids is a raunchy yet heartfelt comedy about friendship, self-worth, and wedding chaos.
Genre(s) and MPAA Rating: Comedy, Romance, R
Key Cast Members:
- Kristen Wiig
- Maya Rudolph
- Rose Byrne
- Melissa McCarthy
- Ellie Kemper
- Wendi McLendon-Covey
Ways to Celebrate
- DIY Bridesmaid Sashes – Have guests wear fun, personalized sashes.
- Bridal Party Drinking Game – Take a sip whenever someone says “maid of honor” or when Helen shows off.
- Dress Like Your Favorite Character – Whether it’s Annie’s casual look or Helen’s ultra-glam wardrobe.
- Host a Cupcake Bake-Off – Compete to see who can decorate the best Bridesmaids-inspired cupcakes.
- Make It a Spa Night – Inspired by Lillian’s bridal shower, offer facials, manicures, and relaxation.
Filming Locations
- Los Angeles, California – Many scenes were filmed in LA, including Annie’s apartment and the bridal boutique.
- Chicago, Illinois – Some exterior shots were filmed in the Windy City.
- Santa Clarita, California – The bridal shop disaster scene was filmed at a now-closed dress shop.
- Van Nuys Airport, California – Used for the hilarious airplane sequence.