What to Expect When You’re Expecting: Expect the Unexpected

Soo, let’s dive right into “What to Expect When You’re Expecting,” shall we? Directed by Kirk Jones, the guy who also brought us “Nanny McPhee” (remember that little magical chaos?), this flick tries to juggle as many storylines as I do köttbullar at Christmas time—and come on, that’s a lot of balls in the air!

We’ve got a cast here that feels like opening a box of Aladdin chocolates: a bit of everything. Cameron Diaz, who I remember vividly from “There’s Something About Mary” (classic, right?), shakes her thing, while Jennifer Lopez gives us those heartfelt teary eyes she’s perfected over time. And then there’s Dennis Quaid, who’s looking strong as a Swedish oak these days.

And friends, those scenes with the dads-to-be? It’s like watching a bumpy ride in a Volvo from the ’80s. A bit all over the place, but somehow endearing. There’s something about Chris Rock pulling dad-jokes like he’s hanging out with just us over fika that felt nicely grounded, you know?

But, I gotta admit, it doesn’t all land for me. As a Swede, I did wish for a bit more lagom tempo, if you catch my drift. The movie gets a bit too hyperactive at times, and I found myself yearning for the calming presence of a Bergman-esque moment – though, who even expects that in a Hollywood comedy?

Funny enough, this film took me back to a memory when my friend, Anders, was about to become a dad himself. Anders, all nerves, thought reading that infamous book could prepare him for anything, deluding himself it was as methodical as assembling an IKEA bookshelf. Spoiler: it wasn’t.

Anyway, the film is a decent reminder of life’s unpredictability. It’s like opening a bag of lösgodis; some treats you love, others you’d rather give away. If you’re in the mood for something light and cheesy, give it a go – just don’t expect the Abba or the Ikea of parenting films.

Check the trailer below