Released in theaters on April 23, 2008, 27 Dresses is a charming romantic comedy directed by Anne Fletcher, based on a screenplay by Aline Brosh McKenna and Dana Fox. Led by Katherine Heigl, Edward Burns, and James Marsden, the film follows the journey of a woman stuck in the role of bridesmaid whose experiences eventually lead her to question her own romantic choices. It will be available on Netflix starting March 13, 2026.
Jane has a natural talent for orchestrating others’ happiness. Over the years, saying yes to everything, stepping in whenever needed, and meticulously planning has led her to be part of no fewer than 27 weddings. Her wardrobe is now filled with the flamboyant dresses from those past celebrations. But this well-oiled routine takes a unexpected turn during a single evening, when she finds herself attending two receptions—from Manhattan to Brooklyn—under the watchful eye of Kevin, a journalist intrigued by this woman who seems to live her life in sync with everyone else’s bridal moments.
The return of Tess, Jane’s younger sister, adds a new twist to the story. Charismatic and confident, Tess quickly captures the attention of George, Jane’s boss… whom Jane secretly has feelings for. When Tess naturally asks her sister to help orchestrate her wedding, Jane finds herself caught between her sense of duty, family loyalty, and her true desires.
Original screenwriter Aline Brosh McKenna drew inspiration from a true story: that of a friend and multiple-time maid of honor, whose experiences sparked the idea of a “latecoming of age” centered around self-assertion. When the film finally got the green light, this initial inspiration came full circle—a subtle nod from life to a story built around the challenge of defining oneself.
The cast leverages the highly recognizable image of Katherine Heigl, who shot to fame on television through Grey’s Anatomy and has already made a mark in comedy films. Standing opposite her is James Marsden, typically cast in less romantic roles, here stepping into a more openly emotional part. The relationship between the two sisters, played by Malin Akerman as Tess, was carefully crafted through nuanced acting and gestures to enhance their on-screen chemistry.
In the filmmaking approach, Anne Fletcher — following Step Up — opts for a lively, physical comedy driven by a highly visual concept: Jane’s wardrobe. The 27 dresses, designed by costume designer Catherine Marie Thomas, serve as a narrative motif in their own right, blending humor (with intentionally “over-the-top” outfits) and melancholy, reflecting the persistent theme of self-effacement in favor of others.
27 Dresses | Film | 2008
Release date in theaters: April 23, 2008
Available on Netflix from March 13, 2026
Comedy | Duration: 1h51
Directed by Anne Fletcher | Starring Katherine Heigl, Edward Burns, James Marsden
Original title: 27 Dresses
Country: United States
Blending comedy and romance, 27 Dresses revolves around a series of wedding scenarios to explore the delicate balance between devotion and personal desire. A classic example of early 2000s rom-coms, the film centers on a character who, quite late in the game, learns to put herself at the heart of her own story.
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