For Richer or Poorer MPAA Rating: PG-13 Entertainment: +3 Content: -1 1/2

Brad Sexton (Tim Allen) is the ultimate New York player at the top of his game. His chain-smoking, air-kissing wife Caroline (Kirstie Alley) is the embodiment of the arrogant Manhattan socialite wife who has found her place on the arm of a successful husband. But their marriage is crumbling under the weight of materialism. When an IRS audit finds them owing the government millions in back taxes and their dishonest accountant skips town, the estranged couple flee to an Amish community in Pennsylvania. They pose as the distant Missouri relatives of a local Amish family. With no alternative but to live among the Amish until their financial problems can be worked out, Brad and Caroline are forced to become reacquainted with the most basic chores of life -- and with each other. Getting back to the simpler life proves tougher than Brad and Caroline could have ever expected. Their pampered Manhattan lifestyle is a distant memory as they try to adapt to their new surroundings. But while adjusting to the rigors of the Amish lifestyle, Caroline and Brad discover they both have something to offer their new friends -- and their marriage. Allen and Alley's starpower and comedic talents will draw large box-office numbers for this hilarious, and sometimes touching, film.

Along with the humor, the best thing about this film is its promotion of the biblical view of marriage. As Brad and Caroline fight with each other and contemplate their impending divorce, they see the marital joys experienced by the Amish who believe their commitment to each other is second only to their commitment to God. The Amish teach Brad and Caroline that marriage is a life-long commitment, and that resolving conflict is much more rewarding than running from it. Unfortunately, the script is marred by twenty-five crude words and seventeen obscenities. Although the film makes a positive statement about God, his name is taken in vain twelve times. In addition, several sexually suggestive remarks occur which further pollute the script. Unfortunately for discerning viewers, foul language bankrupts this delightfully funny film.

Preview Reviewer: Jason Shepherd
Distributor: Universal Pictures, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608