Lars and the Real Girl

Starring: Ryan Gosling, Emily Mortimer, Paul Schneider, Patricia Clarkson, Kelli Garner
Directed by: Craig Gillespie
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Comedy, Drama
2007

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: Lars (Ryan Gosling) lives with his brother (Paul Schneider) and sister-in-law (Emily Mortimer). They try to cheer him up and include him in their lives, to little avail. However, that changes when Lars buys a blow-up doll off the internet and begins introducing her as his girlfriend, Bianca. This complicates matters greatly, as those closest to Lars try to figure out how they can help him.

Review:

Tim: I was really surprised that I really, really enjoyed this movie. The film has so much heart, and it spends a good portion of the movie really developing these characters. You will buy into this world with Lars, his family, friends, and Bianca. First-time director Craig Gillespie does an outstanding job, never rushing the film. The emotions build throughout the movie, always just below the surface. This is a very enjoyable film to watch.

Ryan Gosling is outstanding as Lars. He gives such a complicated, yet restrained performance. He is quickly becoming an outstanding actor, and I feel he was overlooked at the Academy Awards. He should have at least had a nomination. The supporting cast is great, too. I really like Paul Schneider, and he gives another good performance. Emily Mortimer is delightful on screen, and I loved every second of her performance. She's very likeable in this role. Surprisingly, I didn't mind Patricia Clarkson. Usually she annoys me, but she's good here.

Lars and the Real Girl is such a great movie because it tells a heartwarming story, but with a very unconventional twist. How many movies feature the main character falling in love with a blow-up doll? This really works for the movie, as it allows it to stand on its own. The film scores points for originality. However, the real success of the film comes from a terrific script, brought to life by great actors, and impressive directing. The film combines comedy and drama flawlessly- at times, you will be unable to laugh; at others, it's hard not to cry. This is such a wonderful movie, and I am thoroughly glad I watched it.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 8



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: The Notebook, Fracture, Mr. Woodcock