Bad Moms  ★★½

BAD Moms is actually a celebration of being a good mom.

In contrast to films like Bad Neighbours, Bad Santa and Dirty Grandpa, Bad Moms is rude but generally inoffensive for most viewers.

Sure there is some crude language and sexual references, including a flat-out funny sequence on uncircumcised peni (is that a word or did I just make it up?), but the film’s ultimate message is a universally acceptable one – ‘It’s fine to make mistakes but, as long as you love your kids and are there for them, you’re a good mom.’

So all that’s fine, but does it make for a good comedy?

As usual with wide release American comedies, it’s hit and miss. After a slow start, the second act has quite a few good moments, but the ending is typical wrap it up with a nice bow fare.

The premise isn’t a new one for modern comedies – everyday moms (or dads, santas, grandpas, best men, bridesmaids, employees, insert other variations here), struggling to be good, decide to let their hair down for a while.

That’s not a problem as it certainly passes the six-laugh test.

Mila Kunis is a likeable and believable lead and Kristen Bell provides her usual strong support, but it’s Kathryn Hahn who steals every moment as the single mom who leads the others astray.

As usual, if you go in with low expectations, you will mostly enjoy it.