Sunday, February 1, 2015

Grandma

This is the k my movie I probably actually like with Lilly Tomlin. She pulls of the curmudgeon elderly lesbian like I never would have thought possible. Grizzled, negative and sarcastic, Tomlins' character sets out to help her 18 year old granddaughter get the funds for an abortion. Although not comedic in theme, there is quite a bit of comedy and dramatic flair. A great supporting cast featuring strong performances from the likes of Sam Elliott, Judy Greer and Julia Garner really round out this singly enjoyable and relatable movie. The family dynamics regardless of sexuality ring strong for the audience. This is definitely worth a watch in the theaters!

Easily a 9 AT-AT out of 10

I Smile Back

Sarah Silverman plays a housewife suffering from bipolar disorder who stops taking her lithium and starts a downward spiral that ultimately alienates her from her husband and two children.

She does a superb job with the complex nature of mental disorder and addiction, in a role that I never thought she would be capable of playing. Surprisingly good writing by Paige Dylan and Amy Koppelman allowed the audience to witness and feel the truth in the performance. 

Not a lot to say about this movie other than it is worth watching - maybe not in the theater but definitely as a rental. It is hard for someone to relate to the character of Laney (Silverman's) but one can certainly admire the performance and its truth and brutality.

6 R2 units out of 10