Lindsay Lohan once ruled the world. Actually, let me rephrase that – Lindsay Lohan once ruled Millennials’ world. From The Parent Trap to Mean Girls, there was a time when it seemed like the former teen idol could do no wrong. In the years since, her personal struggles have been well-documented, but she has successfully come out the other side, staging a well-planned and well-earned comeback. That comeback is now poised to reach even greater heights with Freakier Friday.
Over two decades after Freaky Friday became a beloved staple for a generation, Freakier Friday arrives with the monumental task of recapturing that same magic. Reuniting Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis in their iconic mother-daughter roles, this legacy sequel introduces new characters while exploring modern-day familial challenges. The result is a film that blends heartfelt nostalgia with contemporary, and often unconventional, family dynamics.
First off, Lohan and Curtis are fantastic. Their chemistry hasn’t missed a beat despite the 22-year gap. Whether in a classic body-swap gag or a quiet emotional moment, the two slip effortlessly back into these characters, offering performances that feel both familiar and fresh.
What makes Freakier Friday especially delightful is its unashamed embrace of 2000s-style storytelling. From the music and fashion to the comedic beats and heartfelt moments, the film feels like a love letter to early-aughts rom-coms and family comedies. There’s a comforting simplicity in its tone, something increasingly rare in today’s more edgy, ironic takes on the genre.
While it admittedly borrows heavily from the original’s structure, the sequel deepens the emotional core by updating the themes. Where the 2003 film focused on the tension and eventual understanding between mother and daughter, this version explores more nuanced dynamics: blended families, co-parenting, and generational communication breakdowns. It’s a reflection of how family has evolved, and the film navigates these complexities considerably well.
That said, Freakier Friday occasionally struggles under the weight of its larger ensemble. Some characters verge on caricature, though most are redeemed by a well-rounded emotional conclusion. More notably, a central conflict between two key characters is introduced late and resolved too quickly, missing an opportunity for deeper emotional payoff. A little more space to breathe would’ve made a significant difference.
All in all, Freakier Friday absolutely succeeds as a legacy sequel. Warm, funny, and steeped in nostalgia, it honours the original while adjusting to the times. With standout performances and a heart that’s clearly in the right place, it’s a satisfying return to a beloved story — and for Millennials especially, a full-circle moment to see Lindsay Lohan back in a big Disney production.
