Sisters (2015) Review: A Misstep for Fey and Poehler

Tina Fey and Amy Poehler are among the most beloved comedy duos of the 21st century. From Saturday Night Live to 30 Rock and Parks and Recreation, their sharp wit, intelligent writing, and irresistible chemistry have made them household names.

When they announced their reunion for the 2015 film Sisters, expectations were sky-high. But instead of the smart, character-driven humor fans expected, Sisters leaned heavily into slapstick and juvenile chaos—delivering laughs that often fell flat.

Plot Summary: One Last Party Before the House is Gone

In Sisters, Fey and Poehler play Kate and Maura Ellis, two estranged siblings who return home when their parents decide to sell the family house. In a desperate attempt to recapture their youth, they throw a massive, wild party with old high school friends.

The plot quickly unravels into chaos: drunken antics, house-trashing escapades, and comedic situations that border on absurd. But rather than clever, character-driven humor, much of the film relies on overused tropes and gags that feel regressive.

A Step Backward for Smart Female Comedy

One of the most disappointing aspects of Sisters is how far it veers from the kind of nuanced, progressive comedy Fey and Poehler are known for. Instead of empowering or subversive storytelling, we get outdated caricatures:

• Kate (Fey) is a reckless, jobless mess.

• Maura (Poehler) is the uptight, over-organized foil.

These roles flatten their talents into clichés, wasting the potential of one of comedy’s most dynamic duos.

Juvenile Humor Over Substance

The film’s biggest issue? It trades insight for slapstick. Where 30 Rock and Parks and Rec thrived on layered storytelling and brilliant writing, Sisters favors cheap jokes and chaotic scenes.

While some moments do land—thanks to Poehler and Fey’s natural charm—they aren’t enough to carry a full-length feature. Instead of challenging the comedy landscape, Sisters feels like a regression.

The Legacy of Fey and Poehler Remains Strong

Despite Sisters falling short, it’s important to acknowledge the lasting legacy of Tina Fey and Amy Poehler. Their work has paved the way for smarter, more inclusive comedy, and they remain two of the most influential comedic voices in Hollywood.

Even great artists occasionally stumble. Sisters might be a low point, but it doesn’t erase the duo’s enormous contribution to entertainment.

Final Thoughts: A Disappointing Detour, Not a Dead End

Sisters had all the ingredients for success—two comedy legends, a solid premise, and a talented supporting cast. Unfortunately, the final result doesn’t live up to the potential.

Still, fans of Fey and Poehler can rest easy knowing this film is just a bump in the road. Their best work continues to inspire, and their comedic chemistry is far too valuable to be defined by a single misstep.