Mrs. Winterbourne (1996): Dir: Richard Benjamin / Cast: Ricki Lake, Shirley MacLaine, Brendan Fraser, Loren Dean, Jane Krakowski: Intriguing romantic comedy that has its charm before surrendering to stupid situations that derail any richness it had. Ricki Lake moves to New York and meets a guy on her birthday but he throws her out of her apartment upon pregnancy. She encounters a couple on the subway who are expecting their first child. When she is allowed to try on their wedding band tragedy strikes. Lake awakens to learn that her baby was born and she is mistaken for someone else. Intriguing introduction becomes predictable with a nonsensical ending. Directed by Richard Benjamin who previously made Milk Money and Mermaids. First issue with this film is its weak performance by Lake. Another actress might have saved this mediocre delivery. Shirley MacLaine is a compelling actress but as Mrs. Winterbourne she is just a presence playing a type who will save the day. The best performance goes to Brendan Fraser as twins. He will accept Lake when it is learned that his brother died but their relationship is no surprise. Loren Dean as Lake's ex is the typical scheming guy whom wants back in her life for the wrong reasons. Theme of family unity falls into foolish situations that becomes more a sideshow fiasco than a decent romance. Score: 5 ½ / 10
Review of Mrs. Winterbourne
