Film Review: Amy Poehler’s Directorial Debut ‘Wine Country’

Amy Poehler (Parks and Recreation) stars, produces, and makes her directorial debut in the new Netflix comedy Wine Country, starring Rachel Dratch, Ana Gasteyer, Maya Rudolph, Paula Pell, Emily Spivey, Cherry Jones, Maya Erskine, with Jason Schwartzman and Tina Fey.

The film follows a tight-knit group of women who bonded while working at a pizza parlor during their college years. They set out to take Napa by storm in celebration of Rebecca’s (Rachel Dratch) 50th birthday. Abby (Amy Poehler), the perfectionist and over-planner; Catherine (Ana Gasteyer), the workaholic; Val (Paula Pell), the one with new knees; Jenny (Emily Spivey), the hermit-esque; and Naomi (Maya Rudolph), the ragged mom of many, seek a relaxing trip and time to reconnect. Rebecca, a timid therapist with a deadbeat husband, is anxious about turning half a century old and insists the women don’t make her birthday the focus of the trip. Abby ignores her and plans an elaborate itinerary full of activities and alcohol consumption.

The ladies discover that wine brings out the real world fears and uncertainties that lurk just beneath the surface of their laughter and gossip. They find themselves in a position where they begin questioning the future and the friendships they painstakingly built. Through laughter interrupted by tears, the women rekindle their timeless friendships and bond together to help each other through hardship. There is a perfect fusion of absolute hilarity and genuine realism throughout the heartfelt comedy.

Poehler’s flawless direction of the film and the cast’s longtime real-life friendships shine through and light up the screen. The chemistry these women developed over years of friendship is such a beautiful and uplifting thing to watch. Wine Country highlights the importance of having and maintaining the ride or die bonds later in life when people change and life becomes chaotic. Catch the premiere of Wine Country on Netflix, Friday, May 10th.