Addams Family (1991): A Director's Touch... or Lack Thereof?

Okay, so full disclosure, I watched The Addams Family (1991) again last night. It's been a while. While it's undeniably fun and has a certain charm, especially Anjelica Huston as Morticia (absolute QUEEN), it really got me thinking about the director again, Barry Sonnenfeld. This was his directorial debut, coming from being a cinematographer for the Coen Bros AND Danny DeVito (which, like, what a resume start!), and I can see both influences. The visuals are definitely striking – the Addams' mansion is perfectly gothic and creepy-chic. I also see the dry humor and sharp timing of the Coen's work in some of the dialogue and situations. But here's my problem: does the movie actually have a vision beyond the visual? I mean, it's entertaining, and Christina Ricci is iconic as Wednesday (the Thanksgiving play scene is pure gold), but does Sonnenfeld really imprint his personality onto the film? Or is he simply executing (well, I might add) a pre-existing property? I feel like it is all very competently put together, but it does feel like Sonnenfeld is mostly trying to not screw up a popular concept rather than truly make it his own. Compared to, say, Tim Burton, who you instantly know directed his films no matter what IP he's adapting, Sonnenfeld is much less... present? It's not a bad thing, necessarily; it makes the movie accessible and broadly appealing. The casting choices were perfect and the performances elevated the source material, but I can't help but wonder what a different director (someone with a stronger auteur stamp) would have brought to the table. Ultimately, I enjoy The Addams Family. It's quotable, fun, and visually appealing. But looking at Sonnenfeld's filmography, I am struggling to see a consistent style in his movies going forward. Still, props for starting with such a well-loved film! I might revisit Men in Black next and see if I have a similar reaction.