Quiz Lady (2023) User Reviews

More like this please, the world needs more like this. film

[fashinrashin · 8/10 · 9 November 2023]

I got towards the end of this and didnt want it to leave. It was because I liked these people so much.

Everyone is good in this. But Sandra OH and Ferrell steal the show. Sandra Oh just crushes her character with just enough over the topness, coupled with incredible caring for those people around her.

She loves her sister.

The action is fast, and the continuity is great, the subplots are also really funny with the kidnappers being a real high point.

Watch out for this movie , it will creep up on you, , its seems like fluff but there are a lot of really good messages in this flick.

More like this please. The world needs more like this.

Fresh, charming, fun, warm if daft & undemanding comedy

[danieljfarthing · 8/10 · 4 November 2023]

In fresh, charming comedy "Quiz Lady" nerdy Awkwafina's life centres around her dog and her fave tv quiz show (with host Will Ferrell & smarmy champ Jason Schwartzman) - so when her dog's kidnapped by mobster Jon Park, her sister Sandra Oh & crotchety neighbour Holland Taylor 'convince' her to go on the show to raise his ransom. It's pretty daft & silly, but Jen D'Angelo infuses ample sisterly warmth into her second screenplay, and director Jessica Yu elicits fine comic performances from her impressive cast (including a Paul Reubens cameo in his final movie - RIP). While not the most demanding or high-brow film out there, it's heart-lifting and fun. Good enough.

Outstanding movie!

[lwoods2 · 8/10 · 3 November 2023]

For the first time in a really long time, we have a movie with an original plot, a solid cast, and zero gimmicks. I felt as though every character could actually be someone I know, so the movie was very relatable for me. It's funny, it's heartfelt, and it's creative.

I live under a rock, so I didn't know who Awkwafina was, but now I'm a fan! She's a solid talent and I hope to see more from her. I was thrilled to see Sandra Oh in a character so far removed from her Grey's Anatomy character, and I thought she sparkled.

I love going into movies without knowing anything about the plot, so I started this one to pass some time and ended up cancelling an appointment so I could finish it. I now have leg hair of unspeakable length, but it was worth it.

Oh Steals the Show in a Hilarious Sister Act

[EUyeshima · 7/10 · 3 November 2023]

Perennial scene stealer Awkwafina lets a hilariously freewheeling Sandra Oh walk away with this rambunctious 2023 comedy as they play estranged sisters who are forced to pay off their runaway mother's $80K gambling debt by competing on a Jeopardy-like game show, Can't Stop the Quiz. Awkwafina tamps down her cutting screen persona playing the put-upon little sister Anne who has become an avid expert CSQ player at home. Older sister Jenny is an irresponsible free spirit who pushes Anne to become a contestant. You can figure out the rest, yet director Jessica Yu and screenwriter Jen D'Angelo inject surprising humanism into the battery-operated plot as well as hilarious scenes like Anne's phantasmagoric drug-induced episode. A strong supporting cast helps considerably with Will Ferrell, Holland Taylor, and Jason Schwartzman playing key roles. There's also a sweet, unexpected cameo at the end.

A Rollicking, if Predictable, Ride

[natmavila · 7/10 · 16 November 2023]

"Quiz Lady" is like a game show itself - a mix of the familiar and the surprising, with just enough excitement to keep you in your seat. This 2023 flick directed by the up-and-coming Jessica Yu plays out like a quirky love letter to game show enthusiasts, but with a twist that's more daytime TV than prime-time drama.

Anne, our game show whiz, is a character you can't help but root for, despite her slightly neurotic tendencies. The film's strength lies in its portrayal of the chaotic, yet endearing bond between Anne and her wild card sister, Jenny. Their dynamic, peppered with flashbacks and nostalgic bickering, forms the heart of the story, making their journey from estranged siblings to team players both touching and believable. The subplot involving their mother's gambling addiction and the loan shark adds a touch of thrill, albeit a tad cliché.

But where "Quiz Lady" stumbles is in its predictability. The twists, like Jenny's double bluff about the lawsuit, feel more telegraphed than shocking. The hallucinogenic audition scene, while hilarious, borders on the absurd, detracting from the film's otherwise grounded humor. It's a rollercoaster that doesn't always keep you guessing, but it sure does keep you smiling.

The film's climax, a game of charades on "Can't Stop the Quiz," is a standout, blending humor and heart in a crescendo that's both satisfying and slightly cheesy. Anne's transition from a nervous wreck to a game show legend is the stuff of underdog dreams, though it happens a bit too neatly. The final reconciliation with Jenny, tied up with the bow of familial love, might feel a bit too convenient for some.

In conclusion, "Quiz Lady" is a decent watch. It's the kind of film you'd enjoy on a lazy Sunday afternoon. It doesn't reinvent the genre, but it doesn't need to. With solid performances, especially the cantankerous neighbor Francine offering sage life advice, it's a comforting, if somewhat formulaic, journey. It's not going to change your life, but it'll definitely brighten your day.

Simple, yet entertaining

[chenp-54708 · 6/10 · 3 November 2023]

It's a fun entertaining comedy with some good directing from Jessica You and great chemistry between Sandra Oh and Awkwafina. Throughout, the production sets and camerawork is solid and it helps to present the setting and atmosphere pretty well. The narrative is the typical sister bonding comedy blended with game shows and while it is pretty standard, it still holds on pretty well with the two good performances from Oh and Awkwafina who both provided great chemistry and charm together.

There are some solid dialogue moments between the characters and pacing is good. Most of the humor is solid but some of the humorous aspects felt a little forced, especially regarding on internet culture as the internet culture humors felt a bit out of place. The soundtrack is a little annoying at times. Overall, it's nothing too special but it's entertaining.

A 7 on IMDB means it's good to me. That's my cutoff.

[generic230-1 · 7/10 · 22 January 2024]

Just fun. Fun to watch great actors make characters come alive. It's well written, cinematography is en pointe, directing & editing are EXCELLENT. Because they know how to shoot and edit a movie where people sound real.

Sometimes a show does all the tiny things right on thousands of things that might pull you out of a show but they make big choices that suck. Sometimes they do the reverse and sometimes, like this film, they do Option 1 and make okay choices. I rate those shows a 7.

A 7 rating, to me, means any tv series or movie is worth watching. It won't be memorable but the performances, writing, casting, cinematography, directing & editing are all at a high standard. And you're into it while watching. This movie is worth a watch.

Silly comedy with some subtle observations, too

[dfloro · 6/10 · 4 November 2023]

Awkwafina and Sandra Oh don't seem to have all that much in common (other than being two Asian American women, but that's like saying any random pair of white chicks being sisters), so I don't immediately accept them as long lost siblings who've just grown apart over the years. But Sandra is such a fine actress, she slowly but surely sells us on them being very different, but equally quite dysfunctional, family members. One has an unfulfilling job and uneventful home life; one seems currently homeless and jobless. But then their mother goes AWOL from her nursing home and they learn she's fled to Macao to avoid loan sharks to whom she owes $80k. In the best tradition of these tales, they must work together to keep all family members including the suspiciously ancient pug, Mr. Linguini, alive & well. While the ending is suitably predictable, this movie is not without some observations about what it means to be a real family. 6.5/10.

Hysterically Funny

[thalassafischer · 9/10 · 5 November 2023]

I laughed at this movie so much, Awkwafina is perfect in every film she's in. She plays the complete opposite of her famous Peik Lin Goh "Asian Ellen" character from Crazy Rich Asians and still absolutely kills it as a shy, obsessively organized office worker who is probably "on the spectrum." Sandra Oh shows up as her insane but loveable older sister. I was dying when Oh, as a middle aged woman, put on puffy pink sleeves and platform sneakers like a K-Pop fan half her age ..in fact she doubles down HARD on this K-Pop vibe variously throughout the film despite playing a Chinese woman in her 40s. The film is constantly messing with stereotypes this way, using them preemptively to mess with the viewer as part of the joke (Sandra Oh is actually a Canadian-American woman of Korean descent).

Just watch it if you're looking for something super fun to laugh at.

Where did they came from?

[BoBo_Goal32 · 7/10 · 3 November 2023]

What a total and shocking surprise. I know that Awkwafina is evolving as an actress but where did Sandra Oh came from with that acting show as an over the head, over the top and Exaggerated sister?

The cast also includes Jason Schwartzman and the main attraction is Will Farrell, but both of the main characters are totally crushing it, and Oh just explodes - god know where from... it's a movie which Awkwafina is the silent and mild character, so in to the vacuum enters Oh with such an entertaining role and totally nails it.

It's a wacky comedy where two sisters, that didn't encounter for a long time get together and their fortune (and also a crazy viral video) sends them into a Quiz adventure, where they meet some dumb and funny characters, go into unlikely situations and all the roads will lead them to find themselves one more time, in order to prove family wins.

It not the "Hangover" but Hulu's production turns out to be one of the freshest comedies around, and not just in television. It is a fun time, chemistry between two fine actresses and a general tone, that's nails on every direction + perfect runtime and no need to over stretch or complicate it.

This was a gem.

[mywakinglife01 · 10/10 · 4 November 2023]

I knew Sandra Oh was in this and as a massive Sandra Oh fan I knew I would dig it. I really like Aqwafina as well. This movie was funny and sweet and really thoughtful. It's cool to see these original creations by these artists representing their culture and not just having the stereotypical characters typically associated with whatever's been put out for the last 20 years.

The sister relationship was relatable. Sometimes one is deemed the caretaker and one gets the fun filled life. It was heartwarming to see them come together and recognize each others sacrifices in their family as with most family relations it's not so black and white. I really enjoyed this flick! It was fun and deep and still lighthearted.

A well made film!

[djrmc24 · 7/10 · 25 November 2023]

Awkwafina and Sandra Oh have so much chemistry that it really elevates this film. Quiz Lady hits all the right notes with being a very interesting and funny movie. The movie has a great cast and a very talented Director. The movie is paced very well and the jokes hit good and often. If you enjoy movies for rooting for the underdog while also getting a good laugh then Quiz Lady is for you. In fact this could be one of my favorite surprise films of 2023, I enjoyed it that much. The Quiz show scenes were so good and I wish they could have lasted a little longer. Will Ferrell as the Trivia Show game host was done perfectly as he knows exactly what to do in this position. Quiz Lady could have been a little longer on the run time and I would have been totally okay with that. Quiz Lady gets 7 solid stars out of 10 from me.

Am I crazy ... or does this movie stink

[john_c_wagner · 1/10 · 4 November 2023]

I am not sure if I saw the same movie as everyone else. The user and critic reviews seem to be going out of their way to heap praise on this turkey - and I just don't get it.

Oh and Awkwafina are both playing against type and it didn't work for me at all. The film looks colorless and flat. Scenes go on and on searching for laughs but few are there to be found. There is a heartfelt component to this movie, but by the time we arrived at that plot my goodwill towards the film had run out.

I wanted to like this. I am a fan of both of these leads and they have done excellent work in the past. But this is a huge miss.

Also, how could that dog possibly still be alive?

I must be watching a different movie

[blueskyy_ng · 6/10 · 8 November 2023]

Yes, the movie is enjoyable. But not for the reasons or praises you see in here (have to be cryptic to out-maneuver the filters and ai).

If you sort by date, and look at the first ten entries, everyone who's giving this a ten is like praising luke kim for his one scene to the moon. Really? His role, in the grand scheme of things, is inconsequential. It's small, it doesn't matter who played that part; and there's nothing, absolutely nothing memorable or praise worthy about that performance.

The cast all did an wonderful job, but you know who caught by eye? Well, the actor who played ben franklin, that's who. Good actors can let you share their emotions, bad actors just make faces and call that acting. Awkwafina is not much of an actress by any yardstick, but fortunately for her, her role didn't require much.

So what do i like about the movie? Well, good story, good script, and it's well directed. That's the takeaway from me.

Sandra Oh and Awkwafina's chemistry is unmatched

[jaysonpajaronvistal · 7/10 · 9 November 2023]

"Quiz Lady" (2023) is a funny movie that keeps you on your toes. It's mainly because the two main actresses are so good together. They play sisters with a real bond, making the movie both touching and engaging. You'll like this film for its fun and silly parts, not because it makes you think a lot.

At the heart of the film are two perfectly matched actresses whose on-screen chemistry is undeniable. They portray sisters with a bond that is as sweet as it is believable, infusing the movie with a core of authenticity that is both engaging and endearing. It is their relationship that becomes the emotional anchor of the story, drawing the audience into a very silly, yet peculiarly comforting cinematic experience. This movie starts with a fun idea. It's about a wild quiz show that helps fix the relationship between two sisters who haven't been close. But, the story can be a little rough. Sometimes the jokes are kind of plain and might not stick in your mind. Still, there are a few surprises that keep things interesting.

"Quiz Lady" isn't trying to be super smart with its humor. Instead, it's just trying to make you laugh and feel something, which it does a good job at. The quiz show part of the story is more than just a fun idea; it helps bring the sisters and their family closer. However, as the story unfolds, the predictability of the genre's tropes becomes apparent. There are moments when "Quiz Lady" seems to be on the verge of becoming something more-hinting at a darker exploration of childhood trauma through its comedy. Sadly, these hints never fully materialized into the deeper narrative that might have set the film apart.

To wrap it up, "Quiz Lady" is a movie with a lot of charm and warmth. The actresses do a great job of keeping you interested. But the movie doesn't explore some of the tougher jokes as much as it could, which would have made it even better. It's a nice movie, but it feels like it could have been more. Even with its flaws, "Quiz Lady" reminds us that a bit of fun can sometimes be just what we needed.

Lighthearted and fun!

[niamhoflanagan · 7/10 · 15 November 2023]

I checked out the trailer which encouraged me to watch and I was not sorry!

This is a little off the wall, basic but very funny mad-cap comedy with a great cast who deliver on their performances.

It's not ground breaking by any stretch but I wanted something light to take me away from the doom and gloom of the reality of the world right now and this was such an enjoyable distraction for me I hadn't encountered Akwafina previously but really enjoy Oh (especially in killing Eve) and of course, Ferrell two solid actors with varied repertoires.

A definite recommend to watch from me, made me smile!!

Basic isn't bad, hilarious and surprisingly sweet

[quinnchristianwilson · 7/10 · 14 November 2023]

Awkwafina and Sandra Oh are both in top comedic form in a surprisingly sweet and funny film. It's breezy, it's a bit basic in plot and structure, but that's not a bad thing, and it's well done. The two lead actress' chemistry is easily the best part. These are two capable women adding believability to characters that could come off as stereotypes.

Awkwafina is against type as the straitlaced Anne, and brings a surprising amount of depth to what could otherwise be a very boring role. If anyone has any doubts about her dramatic chops (first go watch The Farewell), her monologue about an unfortunate incident in Burbank makes what could be a desperate reach for laughs into an oddly poignant moment for the film, and she sells it very well.

Sandra Oh had always had comedic prowess, since her small but scene stealing role in Princess Diaries and her hilarious turn in Sideways. Her character Jenny is the wild child big sister who paved her own path from the get go, and provides many of the film's funniest moments. I've always been a fan of Oh, and I'm so glad to see how sharp she is with better material then Grey's Anatomy.

The supporting cast is mostly great, especially Sarah Paulson's biggest fan Holland Taylor as Anne's grumpy neighbor, though the role did seem a bit pointless. Jason Schwartzman has always played pompous very well, and he's in top form here. Will Ferrell was doing Diet Buddy the Elf, and you can take that however you want to. He's like fries from Wendy's, fine. I was more thrilled with cameos from Tony Hale, Maria Bamford, and the late Paul Reubens.

I was impressed with the amount of heart the script is able to balance between the sentimental moments and the humor. Except for one very specific nightmare trip sequence: the film doesn't go too far into the ridiculous (although it did remind me of Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar, not a bad thing).

All in all, maybe not the most creative or groundbreaking film I've ever seen, but I don't always need that. It was short, sweet, and the perfect high watch on a weeknight, and I think that's a proper mood to be in for a film like this. I have a feeling I'll be watching it again within the next two weeks.

Fun, entertaining, and with some solid funny moments!

[vithiet · 7/10 · 16 November 2023]

I didn't really know what to expect so I was pleasantly surprised. While it has many predictable elements typical of this type of comedy, it's well-written so I had no problem just going along for the ride. And I did laugh out loud more than a few times at many of the well-executed jokes. I didn't find anything to be unnecessarily drawn out as it is often the case in this type of movie and the pacing kept it interesting from beginning to end. It really is the performance of both Awkwafina and Sandra Oh that really tied it all up together for me though. All in all a charming comedy with a fun premise I recommend.

Hits all the right notes.

[xggztfrtp · 9/10 · 4 November 2023]

Both Sandra Oh and Akwafina give great funny/heart warming performances. Never would I think Oh would do such a role. Going into the movie, I was hesitant, but very quickly fell in love with her character. Akwafina plays a more serious role than usual, but still keeps things light. This is one of the few films of recent years that's rewatchable and will produce laughs and cries each time. Great unexpected punchlines on what you think are about to be classic tropes. This movie is worth a watch if you're looking for something to lift your spirits. And if nothing else, Mr Linguine is the best thing to happen to 2023.

Great Chemistry Carries This Fun Film

[deepfrieddodo · 7/10 · 21 April 2024]

A fun plot delivered excellently through the great chemistry between Awkwafina and Oh. A gameshow-obsessed recluse is forced out into the world by her well-intentioned estranged sister, as they look to cover debts left to them by their mother.

The recognisable comedic style allows Awkwafina to lean into her usual character type, but in a believable manner, and Oh to showcase her talents in comedy. It is also very refreshing to see Ferrell in a relatively nurturing role, remaining funny but without resorting to being explicitly daft.

It is silly humour, but engaging, with a heartwarming theme of sisterly love underlying the arc of an odd-couple's approach to life.

NOT a road trip comedy as advertised but very good nonetheless

[lbz_1979 · 8/10 · 3 November 2023]

First, Sandra Oh needs to stick to comedy. I have never enjoyed her in dramas, she comes across as whiny and cold but she is terrific in this and a good foible for Awkwafina.

Not a laugh out loud comedy but touching and sweet. Will Farrell should stick to smaller parts like this. When he's the lead he is overwhelming but in smaller parts he often steals the show. The best part is that you don't even see it as an "Asian" movie, you just see two damaged people looking for a purpose in life. When race disappears in movies, you know that it's a well written and well acted film.

Give this one a chance.

Not a pathbreaking comedy, but fun nonetheless! [+61%]

[arungeorge13 · 6/10 · 6 November 2023]

Sandra Oh may be a tad too old to play Awkwafina's sister, but she totally aced her eccentric character. Whenever she shows up, hilarity ensues be it in the form of one-liners or slapstick. The sisterly chemistry pretty much works, and that's why the film works too, even when the plot and some of its developments lack punch. Their mum is positioned as a pivotal character, and much of the proceedings happen because of the precarious situation she's put them in, but for whatever reason, she remains a ghost in the film. Heck, the old nagging neighbour, played by Holland Taylor, has better texture (and a few fun scenes). The soundtrack also features some recent hits, and the placements for 'Watermelon Sugar' and 'Edamame' are perfect.

Jason Schwartzman and Will Ferrell round off the ensemble in roles tailormade for them. It's Sandra Oh and her wild antics that keep the film upbeat and entertaining for the most part. The writing also gives her the best scenes (and dialogues); no questions there. Awkwafina's raspy voice continues to irk me a little, but credit where it's due - she's not bad here. I also need to applaud the child/teen actors (Jodi Hou and Shirley Chen) who played the sisters' younger versions, as they were lovely. Since the film is too busy crafting chuckle-worthy scenes and getting to its endgame, it doesn't really leave a mark in terms of exploring themes like the Asian American lifestyle (and struggles), sisterhood, or introversion.

If you enjoy over the top SNL skit type of humor, this is for you.

[MovieCriticOnline · 2/10 · 5 November 2023]

If you enjoy over the top SNL skit type of humor, this is for you. Why did every actor play their part like they were winking into the camera trying to be cute/funny? I actually like Awkwafina, but this was a big miss. Everything from the formula story to the annoying cutesy music.

How many times have we seen the awkward nerd be a genius in some game show for someone to realize they need to play the game. White Men Can't Jump, for example.

Will ferrel is just awful. He never was funny, because he TRIES to be funny and forces the humor/characters.

Everything was sooo over the top, which means they didn't feel secure with the script/actors so they over did it. Typical of insecure actors and directors.

I didn't buy a single scene in the film.

Skip it.

What a surprise of a movie...

[paul_haakonsen · 7/10 · 17 November 2023]

I stumbled upon the 2023 comedy "Quiz Lady" by random chance, and I had, in fact, never actually heard about the movie. But seeing that the movie was starring Awkwafina, of course I opted to sit down and watch it, as she usually makes good comedies.

The storyline in "Quiz Lady", as written by Jen D'Angelo, was really good. It was an entertaining and interesting story, plus it was something that was refreshing and not really something I've seen before. So I think that writer Jen D'Angelo definitely came up with something outstanding and unique. And I have to say that I was genuinely and wholeheartedly entertained throughout the entire 99 minutes that the movie ran for.

The acting performances in "Quiz Lady" were good, and Awkwafina delivered a spot on performance, as I assumed that she would. Initially I wasn't thrilled that Sandra Oh was on the cast list, as I never really been much of a fan of hers, not that I have been actively following her career or tracking down her movies and TV shows. But color me impressed with her performance in "Quiz Lady", because it was great. And the chemistry between Awkwafina and Sandra Oh on the screen was just phenomenal and it felt like actual sisterhood.

In addition, the movie also has a good appearance and performance from Will Ferrell, whom donned the mantle of a TV quiz show host. The movie also have some familiar faces with the likes of Holland Taylor, Jason Schwartzman and Paul Reubens.

The characters in the movie were good. Writer Jen D'Angelo really fleshed out Anne Yum (played by Awkwafina) and Jenny Yum (played by Sandra Oh) quite nicely and in great detail. And that certainly added a lot to the movie's overall impression.

There were some good laughs throughout the course of the movie, and it was the type of comedy that leaves you with a sense of feel-good after the movie ends.

I will say that "Quiz Lady" is a movie that is definitely well worth taking 99 minutes to sit down and watch.

My rating of director Jessica Yu's 2023 comedy "Quiz Lady" lands on a seven out of ten stars.

Funny, familiar and pleasant story line

[gkeller-80752 · 6/10 · 6 November 2023]

This movie is about two sisters and their journey. It includes a show called Quiz Show which reminds me of Jeapordy. I feel like I have seen this same formula so many times.

I kind of wish they would have done the opposite casting of the sisters. I thought Sandra OH was fantastic. However, I did not love Akwafinia in this as much. I am a huge fan this was just not my favorite role for her. It was still an enjoyable and funny movie. It was worth the time spent to watch it.

A great rainy Sunday afternoon movie. It was light and quirky.

There are some other fine actors in it as well!

I think it could be great for kids and adults of all ages. It's free if you have, Hulu subscription.