Sandra Bullock’s Best Comedy Just Arrived on Peacock (Right After Exiting a Streaming Rival)

by

Over a career that’s stretched across multiple genres and several decades, Sandra Bullock has earned the title of one of Hollywood’s most adaptable actresses today. Since her first acting role in the 1987 thriller “Hangmen,” Bullock has left an indelible impression on cinema with her iconic performances in films like the suspenseful “Gravity,” the action-packed “Speed,” and the beloved ’90s romantic fantasy “Practical Magic.” Bullock even took home an Oscar for her emotional portrayal in the drama “The Blind Side.” Additionally, she’s renowned for her comedic talent, tickling funny bones in hit movies like “The Heat” and “The Proposal.” In fact, one of her most amusing comedy films has recently found a new home on a streaming platform.

On September 1st, Peacock’s streaming library witnessed a surge of fresh additions, among them the action comedy film “Miss Congeniality,” directed by Donald Petrie. This movie, along with its 2005 sequel titled “Miss Congeniality 2: Armed and Fabulous,” are now available on Peacock, having departed from rival streamer Paramount+. In the original 2000 film, Sandra Bullock portrays Gracie Hart, a rough-around-the-edges FBI agent compelled to infiltrate the Miss United States beauty pageant as a contestant due to a terrorist threat against the event. Bullock once again embodies Gracie in the sequel, where she is back in action when the pageant’s winner and host are abducted.

Why You Should Watch Miss Congeniality

As a movie enthusiast, I must confess that “Miss Congeniality” didn’t initially win over the critics, with a modest 41% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. However, it has since carved out a niche for itself as a cult classic, serving up pure popcorn film delight. Sandra Bullock, in her role as the lovable underdog Gracie Hart, delivers a captivating performance that earned her a second Golden Globe nomination. This performance is backed by an array of unforgettable characters brought to life by the talented ensemble cast, which includes Michael Caine, Benjamin Bratt, Candice Bergen, William Shatner, and Ernie Hudson. With its light-hearted, low-stakes narrative, “Miss Congeniality” offers a non-stop barrage of entertainment, blending mystery, action, and humor in an enthralling fashion. Lines like “April 25th is the perfect date” are just one example of the film’s memorable dialogue that continues to resonate.

In December 2000, Miss Congeniality made its way onto theater screens, generating a global revenue of $212 million despite a budget of only $45 million. While critical reception was divided, the movie resonated with audiences who gave it an approval rating of 69%. Five years later, a sequel, Armed and Fabulous, hit cinemas. Sandra Bullock’s performance continued to garner praise, but the film fell short in recapturing the enchantment of the original. On Rotten Tomatoes, it currently boasts a dismal 15% score from critics and a slightly better 43% rating from viewers.

Will There Be a Miss Congeniality 3?

Given the enduring popularity of “Miss Congeniality” as it ascends to cult classic status and the current trend of remakes and revivals, one might expect that a third “Miss Congeniality” movie would be an obvious choice. Regrettably, as of now, there have been no indications or plans for another film in the series.

If there were to be a third installment of “Miss Congeniality,” it seems that one key cast member is already eager to reprise her role. In an interview with PEOPLE in June, Heather Burns, who played Miss Rhode Island Cheryl Frasier, expressed her excitement about potentially returning, stating that she would “love” to be a part of it. Burns reminisced about the first two films, describing them as some of the best experiences of her life and expressing enthusiasm for the possibility of another movie, stating that she would enthusiastically take on the opportunity if given the chance.

https://comicbook.com/movies/news/comedy-movie-legacy-sequels-ranked-worst-best/embed/#

Read More

2025-09-07 03:10