Entertainment Blog #245 | Quiz Lady [2023] - The Only Way is Winning the Quiz..

I think most people like to watch Quiz Programs to see how people are struggling there to answer question which looks like relatively easy for us. We would answer them and tell the others that if I was there, I'll answer it so easily. But on that seat, it is another experience, with money and questions.

"Quiz Lady" is a 2023 American comedy film directed by Jessica Yu. the story was written by Jen D'Angelo. The film features an ensemble cast including Awkwafina, Sandra Oh, Jason Schwartzman, Holland Taylor, Tony Hale, and Will Ferrell. Also, Will Ferrell, Awkwafina, and Oh serve as producers of the movie. The film was released by 20th Century Studios via Hulu in the United States on November 3, 2023, even though it had a somewhat higher budget of $25 million.

The story centers on Anne, a game show-obsessed young woman who is surprisingly reunited with her reckless older sister, Jenny, who lived away from family for years after receiving news that their gambling-addicted mother has fled to Macau. Anne has a dog, Mr. Linguini. She loves him so much. She used to watch the quiz with him.

Jenny, previously living in her car, moves in with Anne. Anne doesn't like that move that much, but she doesn't know what to do. One day, when Anne was watching the quiz program, Jenny recorded Anne's impressive game show skills, uploading the video online, where it quickly went viral.

But Anne doesn't like this big attention. This draws the attention of a loan shark to whom their mother owes $80,000. The loan shark kidnaps Anne’s dog, Mr. Linguini, demanding the debt be paid. With no other options, Jenny encourages Anne to participate in her favorite game show, Can't Stop the Quiz, to win the prize money and rescue Mr. Linguini.

Anne is initially hesitant but agrees after Jenny supports her through a stressful audition. Despite struggling to start answering questions due to the effects of the pills that Jenny gave, Anne impresses the producers and secures a spot on the show. But now, Anne has to face the next rounds without the pills. But she is having panic attacks when get nervous. She requires Mr. Linguini. But she's kidnapped. So, what will jenny do? Will Anne win the quiz? It's up to you to find out.

"Quiz Lady" differentiates itself from other comedies through its focus on the dynamics of sisterhood against the backdrop of a game show. The film combines heartfelt moments with humorous situations, particularly highlighting the contrast between Anne's meticulous nature and Jenny's chaotic spontaneity. The use of a game show as a central plot device adds a unique twist, creating tension and excitement as the protagonist navigates both personal and external challenges.

"Quiz Lady" received generally positive reviews, with an 81% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 90 critics' reviews, and an average rating of 6.4/10. Critics praised the chemistry between Awkwafina and Sandra Oh, which helped to balance the film's uneven moments and deliver a mix of humor and emotional depth. Metacritic assigned the film a score of 59 out of 100, indicating mixed or average reviews, reflecting a consensus that, while the film has its flaws, the performances and engaging storyline make it enjoyable.

"Quiz Lady" performed well in the streaming market, ranking as the fourth most-streamed film across all platforms in the United States during the week of its release and maintaining high viewership the following week. In conclusion, "Quiz Lady" offers a charming and entertaining experience, driven by strong lead performances and a heartfelt story of familial bonds. Despite some uneven moments, the film successfully combines comedy with touching themes, making it a noteworthy addition to 2023's film lineup.