The 2015 comedy Sisters, starring Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, clocks in at a runtime of 1 hour and 58 minutes, or 118 minutes. This runtime delivers a generous dose of physical comedy, sisterly bickering, and nostalgic mayhem, making it a memorable comedic experience.
Unpacking the Comedy: All About Sisters
Sisters, directed by Jason Moore and written by Paula Pell, tells the story of two estranged sisters, Maura (Poehler) and Kate Ellis (Fey), who return to their childhood home to pack up their belongings before their parents sell the house. Determined to relive their youth one last time, they throw a massive, over-the-top party that quickly spirals out of control. The film’s humor derives from the sisters’ contrasting personalities, the chaotic party atmosphere, and the relatable experience of dealing with family and growing older. The success of Sisters hinges not just on its runtime, but on the quality of the comedic writing and the undeniable chemistry between Fey and Poehler.
Understanding the Runtime and its Impact
While 118 minutes is fairly standard for a comedy film, the pacing and content are crucial. Sisters effectively utilizes its runtime to develop the characters, establish the central conflict, and build to a satisfying comedic climax. A shorter runtime might have felt rushed, while a significantly longer one could have risked losing momentum. The 1 hour and 58-minute duration allows for ample character development and comedic set pieces, creating a balanced and entertaining viewing experience. The length is perfect for a Friday night in or to share with friends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Sisters
Here are some common questions viewers have about the film Sisters:
Is there an extended cut of Sisters?
Yes, there is! An unrated extended cut of Sisters is available on DVD, Blu-ray, and digital platforms. This version adds approximately 13 minutes of additional footage, bringing the total runtime to 2 hours and 11 minutes (131 minutes). This extended cut includes deleted scenes, alternate takes, and extended comedic moments, offering a more in-depth experience for fans of the film.
What is included in the extended cut that isn’t in the theatrical version?
The extended cut features several additions, including:
- More character development for supporting characters.
- Extended comedic bits and improvisational moments from Fey and Poehler.
- Deleted scenes that were cut for time or pacing reasons in the theatrical release.
- Additional backstories that provide more context to the sister’s relationship.
Does the extended cut significantly change the movie?
While the extended cut adds more content, it doesn’t fundamentally alter the overall plot or themes of the movie. It primarily enhances the existing comedic elements and character development, providing a richer experience for those who enjoyed the theatrical version. Most critics agree the extra time adds value to the narrative.
Is Sisters available on streaming services?
Availability varies by region and streaming service. Sisters has appeared on platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. It is best to check the specific streaming service in your region to confirm its availability. You can also rent or purchase the film on digital platforms like iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.
What is the movie rated and why?
Sisters is rated R for crude sexual content including brief nudity, and for language throughout. The rating reflects the film’s mature themes, explicit language, and suggestive situations, which are not suitable for younger audiences.
Who are the other notable actors in the movie?
Besides Tina Fey and Amy Poehler, Sisters features a strong supporting cast, including:
- Maya Rudolph as Brinda, the Ellis sisters’ childhood rival.
- Ike Barinholtz as James, a handyman who becomes romantically involved with Maura.
- John Leguizamo as Dave, a drug dealer who attends the party.
- James Brolin and Dianne Wiest as Bucky and Deanna Ellis, the sisters’ parents.
Was Sisters a box office success?
Yes, Sisters was a commercial success. Despite being released on the same day as Star Wars: The Force Awakens, it managed to hold its own at the box office, grossing over $105 million worldwide on a budget of $30 million.
Where was Sisters filmed?
Sisters was primarily filmed in Long Island, New York. The childhood home depicted in the movie is located in a residential neighborhood, and other scenes were shot in various locations throughout Long Island.
What are some similar movies to Sisters?
If you enjoyed Sisters, you might also like:
- Bridesmaids (2011): Another female-led comedy with a similar blend of humor and heart.
- Mean Girls (2004): Written by Tina Fey, this high school comedy shares a similar comedic sensibility.
- Baby Mama (2008): Another Tina Fey and Amy Poehler collaboration about the challenges of parenthood.
- Blockers (2018): A more recent comedy with a similar premise of adults trying to stop their kids from having sex on prom night.
How does the runtime of Sisters compare to other comedies starring Fey and Poehler?
- Baby Mama (2008): Approximately 99 minutes.
- Date Night (2010) (Fey stars): Approximately 88 minutes.
Sisters falls in the middle, offering a more substantial viewing experience than Date Night but being slightly longer than Baby Mama. This runtime likely reflects the film’s larger scale and more complex narrative.
What makes the chemistry between Tina Fey and Amy Poehler so special?
The on-screen chemistry between Tina Fey and Amy Poehler stems from their decades-long friendship and professional collaboration. They have worked together on Saturday Night Live, Weekend Update, and numerous films and TV shows. Their shared comedic sensibility, improvisational skills, and genuine affection for each other translate into a natural and engaging dynamic on screen. This makes watching them together so enjoyable and relatable. They’re more than just co-stars; they’re comedic partners.
Is a sequel to Sisters likely?
As of 2024, there are no confirmed plans for a sequel to Sisters. While both Fey and Poehler have expressed interest in revisiting the characters, scheduling conflicts and finding the right story have proven challenging. However, the enduring popularity of the film leaves the door open for a potential sequel in the future. Fans remain hopeful that they will see Maura and Kate Ellis reunite on screen once again.