Movie Review: Kids Are All Right
Written by Billy Tatum   
Tuesday, 27 July 2010 04:09
The 411: Family ties are enforced, reinforced and just plain forced as test tube siblings search out their biological father with unexpected consequences. The paternal odyssey turns out to be a lesson in what family means for son, daughter, would-be father and their lesbian mothers. That's right, athletic son Laser (John Hutcherson) and brainy daughter Joni (Mia Wasikowska) have two lesbian moms (and Oscar nominated ones at that).  Jules (Julianne Moore) is the sexy, yet flighty ginger part of the duo. Nic (Annette Bening) is a controlling surgeon both in and out of the home.  Paul (Mark Ruffalo) is the quintessential SoCal bachelor complete with female coworkers who fawn all over him, clothed and otherwise. Joni and Laser's efforts to integrate Paul into the family goes awry when he helps the family get in touch with themselves in one way or another. 

The Good:  Ah, there's nothing quite like an indie film with heavy hitting performances. It's like Albert Pujols playing against a college team. There will be nothing but homers. Although the subject matter could conjure a preachy NO on 8 sermon or the anticipation of late night Cinemax girl-girl action, it is anything but. The performances by Bening and Moore are top notch as they're nearly effortless onscreen chemistry convesy both the seriousness and emotional awkwardness of a faltering relationship. Mia Wasikowska is often the most mature member of the family and handles the role with a confidence only hinted at during her portrayal of Alice in "Alice in Wonderland".

The Bad: Oscar worthy performances are nearly spoiled by a very weak, nearly misogynistic  ending. Writer/Director is often a hyphenated title that makes you cringe, because both hats often are too large to wear. This may have been the case with Director and co-writer  Lisa Cholodenko.  The audience never really knows whose story "The Kids Are All Right" truly is and it's too bad, because it could've been very special.

The Last Word: Despite it's shortcomings, it'll likely get deserved Oscar buzz. 

Theater, DVD, or Cable: Theater. Big performances are best seen on the big screen, but you will feel like something's missing.


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