Thursday, August 31, 2006

LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE (2006)

Going in I was expecting a quirky masterpiece. And while it didn't live up to my incredibly high expectations, this film is truly worth the price of admission.

LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE (2006)

Rating: ****1/2 out of 5

What’s not to like in this gem of a film about an idiosyncratic, semi-dysfunctional family that ventures on a road trip. The baby of the family, 7 year-old Olive (Abigail Breslin), wins a shot at a regional children’s beauty pageant, and soon the entire family jumps into the VW Bus. While the screenplay is deftly written (especially for a debut), it is the outstanding cast that steals the show. Anchored by Breslin, who is remarkable as Olive, the cast portrays the dynamic, hot-and-cold relationships that are forged on the anvil of family. While the film may be a little light in some parts, there are poignant moments of real, visceral emotion. As Olive’s parents, Toni Collette and Greg Kinnear give wonderful performances; in my opinion both are underrated actors. Kinnear fluidly adds nuance to his caricature-like character when the screenplay calls for it. Collette brings life to a stressed out mom doing her best to keep her flock together. Steve Carell, a comedic genius as we all are aware, shows some major dramatic chops as Olive’s uncle. All in all, an enchanting film with a singular appreciation for what it means to be a family. Not to be missed.

3 comments:

PixieGaf said...

Great review V sounds like a funny movie. I might go out and see it this weekend.

M-M-M-Mishy said...

I heard this was great. And I love that sweaty mess of a man, Steve Carell with all my heart. Its on my list of must-sees.

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