Away We Go

Starring: John Krasinski, Maya Rudolph, Catherine O'Hara, Jeff Daniels, Jim Gaffigan, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Allison Janney, Paul Schneider
Directed by: Sam Mendes
Rating: R
Genre: Comedy, Drama
2009

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: An expectant father (John Krasinski) and mother (Maya Rudolph) take a trip around America looking for the perfect place to raise their daughter, reconnecting with family and friends along the way.

Review:

Tim: I really like that director Sam Mendes changed things up, giving us this small, quiet little movie about parenthood, friendship, family, and love. The film is co-written by Dave Eggers, who wrote one of my all time favorite books, A Heartbreaking Work of Staggering Genius, and this movie features his terrific blend of comedy and emotional drama. I like that Mendes really held back here, telling a small story instead of trying to be overly dramatic like he so often makes his films. The restraint was very much appreciated.

I also really enjoyed the unexpected cast. John Krasinski was a terrific choice to play the lead role. Krasinski does excellent work on "The Office" and I really believe he has the skills to be a movie star. Here, he gets some indie cred by giving a warm, funny performance. He wasn't able to look directly into the camera with a sheepish look like he does on his television show, but he makes up for that by giving a very good performance. I really liked him in this role. I also have to say that I was surprised how much I liked Maya Rudolph. Rudolph has never been at the top of my list of actresses. More than anything else, I am annoyed with her on screen. I am not a fan. And yet, this movie took the first step towards making me rethink that believe. Rudolph is excellent in this movie. She gives the best performance of the film, a believable, realistic portrayal of a woman struggling with life, but fortunate to be surrounded by those she loves. To say I was impressed with Rudolph is an understatement.I honestly wouldn't have believed she was capable of delivering like this. Rudolph and Krasinski don't make the most likely pairing, but their warm performances are more than convincing.

This movie is also helped by a number of smaller supporting roles, although I desperately wish each had more screen time. Catherine O'Hara and Jeff Daniels are very good as Krasinski's parents, but I very much wish they were on screen more. Daniels is always excellent in these smaller roles and I wish we had more time with him. I really liked seeing Jim Gaffigan (one of my favorite comedies) in an understated but funny role. I like that he didn't play the funny man here. He surprised me. I also really liked Maggie Gyllenhaal, although she was the one supporting actor who might have had a few minutes too much time. Her character is ridiculous and cringe-worthy, but she brought a very interesting element to the movie. Just as the film starts to feel predicable, her absurd scenes keep the energy high. I appreciated her willingness to look silly for the film.

While Sam Mendes gives us a very good movie, I don't think it quite achieved greatness. I really believe the film's conclusion was far too rushed. The movie was over before I knew it. I wish there was just a bit more more buildup, which would have provided a more satisfying conclusion. Also, while the movie is funny- and I mean really funny- I wish it had a few more laughs. Most of the jokes connect, some of them do not. The drama is superb, but the comedy needed to be just a bit better. These are small issues, though.

Away We Go is one of those movies that makes you laugh and warms your heart. It is entertaining, touching, and oftentimes beautiful. I really enjoyed this movie- it was a change of pace from many of the movies coming out of Hollywood these days, and it is a welcome change. It is rare for a movie to capture the essence of what it means to be human and to be in love, but this film does that.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 7.5



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: Away From Her, American Beauty, License to Wed