The Suburbans is a 1999 comedy film directed by Donal Lardner Ward. The film features a fictional band called The Suburbans, who had a hit song in the 1980s and disbanded after that. The band members went on to lead normal lives, with Danny (Donal Lardner Ward) becoming a dentist, Mitch (Tony Guma) becoming a salesman, Rory (Craig Bierko) becoming a successful but unfulfilled screenwriter, and Gil (Will Ferrell) becoming a stay-at-home dad. The ex-band members reunite for a performance at Mitch's wedding, where they are spotted by a young record company talent scout, Cate (Jennifer Love Hewitt).
Cate is impressed by the band's chemistry and decides to give them a chance at a comeback. The Suburbans jump at the opportunity, and with Cate's help, they begin to record a new album and go on a promotional tour. However, their comeback is not as smooth as they had hoped. They struggle to adapt to the music industry and the changing trends, and their new music is not well received by their old fans.
As the band members navigate this new phase of their lives, they also deal with their personal struggles. Rory's marriage is falling apart, Danny is having an affair with a patient, Mitch is having doubts about his job, and Gil is struggling to find his identity outside his role as a dad. The film explores themes of aging, nostalgia, and the perils of chasing fame.
The Suburbans also features appearances by Ben Stiller, who plays a record executive, and Amy Brenneman, who plays Danny's wife. The film received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its satirical take on the music industry and others criticizing its uneven pacing and lack of depth. However, it has garnered a cult following among fans of 90s pop culture and nostalgic music lovers.