Parents at war due to possible bankruptcy, an angry brother who has taken the vow of silence till he gets into the airforce, a gay uncle recovering from a suicide attempt, and an heroin snorting grandpa, make up Olive's world. Not completely oblivious to the chaos around her, Olive is a seven year old beauty-queen-wannabe, who has just been chosen to take part in the Little Miss Sunshine contest. Putting aside their differences, the family journeys into California, in a yellow broken down van, so Olive can take part in the contest.
Their tragic yet funny experiences through that journey, that lead to their awakening, is what completes this heart warming, film about people and relationships. Despite the initial decadence, you realize eventually that you relate to these characters. You might not approve of Grandpa's grandparenting skills, due to his heroin addiction, or the advice he gives his silent grandson.
"F*** as many women as you can."
Yet, you love the relationship he shares with his granddaughter. He coaches her for her contest, and assures her that she is indeed the most beautiful girl in the world, and definitely not a loser for trying to achieve her dreams. You empathize with the anger in Nietzsche crazy Dwayne (Olive's brother), who has dreams that he might never fulfil. You love and root for uncle Frank, who has been cheated out of his work. You even love daddy Richard, despite his annoying views on losers and winners.
During the course of their journey, the characters grow, and soon you realize they are no different from a family you know. Alan Arkin as grandpa is a treat. However, since i haven't seen the other oscar nominees, i can't comment on whether he deserved his Oscar. Abigail Breslin was wonderful as Olive. Her innocence and conviction is what makes Olive such a lovable character. However I was most surprised at Steve Carell, who plays uncle Frank! He is everyone that he isn't in the Office! You don't quite expect this funny man to play a depressed professor.
Directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris, Little Miss Sunshine is a must see for anyone who is awaiting a refreshing, simple-yet-memorable film!
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1 comment:
Hmmm..Abigail certianly was a show stealer at the Oscars..her acting skills bring in a million dollars are so per moviw i think..not sure..need a VErify step here ..:P
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