Son in Law

Son in Law (1993): A Heartfelt Comedy of Culture Clash and Belonging

Son in Law, released in 1993 and directed by Steve Rash, is a charming and often hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy that captures the essence of culture shock, personal growth, and the enduring power of family. Starring Pauly Shore in one of his most memorable roles, the film tells the story of a wild, eccentric college student who is thrust into the world of rural Americana — and somehow manages to win over an entire small-town family.

The story follows Rebecca Warner (played by Carla Gugino), a sheltered farm girl from South Dakota who leaves her tight-knit community to attend college in Los Angeles. At first overwhelmed by the fast-paced and flamboyant world of the big city, Rebecca eventually forms an unexpected friendship with Crawl (Pauly Shore), a free-spirited and unconventional resident advisor at her dorm. When Thanksgiving break approaches, Rebecca decides to bring Crawl home with her, much to the confusion and skepticism of her traditional Midwestern family.

The comedic spark of Son in Law lies in the culture clash between Crawl and Rebecca's conservative family. His bizarre clothing, eccentric speech, and over-the-top personality are at odds with the no-nonsense rural lifestyle of Rebecca’s parents, played by Lane Smith and Cindy Pickett. Tensions rise when Crawl announces, to everyone’s shock, that he and Rebecca are engaged — a fake engagement initially designed to protect Rebecca from a pushy ex-boyfriend.

Despite his oddball antics, Crawl begins to win over the family through sheer charm, honesty, and a willingness to get his hands dirty. He helps out on the farm, bonds with Rebecca’s younger brother, and gradually breaks through the crusty exterior of her skeptical father. The heart of the film lies in Crawl’s transformation from a comic caricature to a figure of genuine warmth and loyalty, proving that there’s more to him than meets the eye.

Pauly Shore's performance, full of catchphrases and goofy mannerisms, is the comedic engine of the film. However, it’s his unexpected sincerity and commitment to helping Rebecca that elevates the film beyond slapstick. Carla Gugino plays the straight-laced Rebecca with both grace and strength, providing a grounded counterpart to Shore's chaotic energy. Together, they create a dynamic that is both humorous and endearing.

The film is also a subtle commentary on acceptance and change. Son in Law illustrates how people from completely different backgrounds can grow to understand and even appreciate one another. It’s about breaking down prejudices and embracing new perspectives, all wrapped in a lighthearted comedic package.

In conclusion, Son in Law is more than just a ‘90s comedy with zany humor — it’s a story about identity, family, and the surprises that come when you open your heart to the unexpected. With its blend of laughs and heartfelt moments, the film remains a nostalgic favorite and a feel-good movie that celebrates the joy of being yourself in a world that doesn’t always understand you.