I was surprised to see this film didn't score that highly! I happened to catch this showing on SKY recently, and almost switched channels thinking it could be another slow-moving, half-hearted drama starting! I missed the very start and caught it at the bit where Ellen Barkin (Lynn) was driving with her two sons to the families house; to stay to attend her eldest son, Dylans wedding. I am so glad I continued to watch! I found this a very moving, poignant film in which I felt many people could deeply relate to. I found the characters very defined and very easy to like and sympathise with.
Not many films make me feel a lump in my throat and make me feel as though I am really there with them and feeling their grief, and day-to- day issues... this definitely did this for me! The strained relationship (amongst many within this family) between Doris and Lynn, was portrayed amazingly, as was the tension between Lynn and Patty (Demi Moore). Demi Moore (Patty)really played a harsh bitch and it was very raw! The most moving parts for me were, where Ben said he had overheard the family, and what they had said about his condition (I won't spoil that part, you will have to watch). Also the part where Lynn shouted abuse at her son, Elliott, calling him a M*****F*****! That was pretty harrowing and shocking, and some thing I could NEVER imagine, or contemplate saying to my son,whatever the circumstances! But it shows how far angst and despair can really push you, and how it can change ones self! That part really did make me choke! The scene where Alice enters the room at the dinner-party get together was very moving; and I felt her discomfort when walking in to the room full of family that all knew of her issues and past...she was very convincing to watch. Bonnie was my least favourite to watch, I felt she was a little over-powering, but then I guess there are people as outspoken and outrageous as she, within family's! But still, my partner and I found her quite out of place in this film. Not an actress I enjoy watching.
In my opinion, Ellen Barkin (Lynn) and Ezra Miller (Elliott) outshone all the rest of the cast, I felt they really stole the show! That isn't to say the rest weren't good - they really were! Ezra Miller is one to watch out for in the future, he was so absorbing to watch! Having seen him recently in "We need to talk about Kevin, he is, in my eyes, a real inspiration to up and coming young actors, and really intriguing to watch!
This is a movie that I am sure hits home to a lot of people, as I felt it was very real and very impacting! George Kennedy (Joe) certainly reflected the cruel harsh end to old-age. The moment where Doris opens her heart to her daughter Lynn over her fears of losing him, really hit me. This is areal tragedy for most couples to face in later life, and it was a very moving moment...which made you feel for Doris, despite her aloof mothering skills towards Lynn.
This is a film to make you feel the awkwardness and the anxiety's of peoples lives, with moments where you really do cringe. You really can feel the similarities of this families moments of pain and suffering within your own life. Yet this film also has many warming and loving moments throughout. A good master-piece of love, hurt and despair. I would love to see many more films directed in this way, as for someone as me, who holds a very short attention-span with the majority of films, this captivated me and had me on the edge of my seat throughout! Very gripping and a must-see! I applaud you Sam Levinson!
