“Freakier Friday” has officially premiered for film press members, and the initial reactions are overwhelmingly positive. Critics are calling it a “great feel-good film” that blends humor with heartfelt moments. Notably, TV host Jeff Conway took to X to express his enthusiasm for the film, describing it as “double the fun” and “twice the heart” compared to the original “Freaky Friday.” He praised the enduring chemistry between stars Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis, stating, “These 22 years later, they haven’t missed a beat! Their on-screen chemistry is truly something special.” Conway concluded his remarks by saying it’s “a true delight that the entire family will enjoy.”
Variety’s senior artisans editor Jazz Tangcay also shared her thoughts on X, calling the film “an absolute riot.” She reported laughing out loud and shedding tears during the film's tender family scenes. According to Tangcay, “It’s such a great feel-good film. Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis deliver hilarity and emotion in this funtastic sequel. I never knew I needed this film! Oh, and Manny Jacinto, I love him.”
Entertainment journalist Brandon Davis chimed in with his own rave review, revealing that he was “howling” with laughter during the premiere screening on Tuesday night. He noted, “Jamie Lee Curtis is having the time of her life, and it’s a blast to watch. It’s silly and sometimes confusing but hilarious throughout, even touching at times. Absolutely some of the most fun I’ve had watching a movie this year.”
The story of “Freakier Friday” unfolds years after the original. Now, Anna has a daughter and a soon-to-be stepdaughter. As she navigates the complexities of merging her two families, Anna finds herself, along with her mother Tess, her daughter, and her stepdaughter, in a chaotic four-way body swap. What begins as sheer pandemonium ultimately leads them to a deeper understanding amid the challenges of family transitions.
Original stars Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis reprise their roles as the beloved mother-daughter duo. The film also features a talented ensemble cast, including Julia Butters, Sophia Hammons, Manny Jacinto, Mark Harmon, Chad Michael Murray, and Maitreyi Ramakrishnan.
During an interview with Variety at the Las Culturistas Culture Awards, Curtis shared her admiration for Lohan, stating, “She has taught me so much. She has her team, where her two people would be standing on either side of a camera holding a big light. It’s Lindsay lighting — that would have been good branding — they hold lights so that we look better. So, I’ve learned a lot from her already. We had a good time. We love each other.”
The original 2003 “Freaky Friday”, inspired by Mary Rodgers’ 1972 novel, follows the story of a widowed mother, Tess, and her teenage daughter, Anna. During a crucial moment in their relationship, they come across a magical fortune cookie that prompts them to swap bodies, leading to a profound understanding and connection between them.
With its blend of comedy, emotion, and family dynamics, “Freakier Friday” promises to be a delightful cinematic experience for audiences of all ages. Stay tuned for more updates and reviews as this much-anticipated sequel hits theaters soon!
