Spanglish

Starring: Adam Sandler, Tea Leoni, Paz Vega, Cloris Leachman
Directed by: James L. Brooks
Rating: PG-13
Genre: Comedy, Drama
2004

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: A spanish speaking woman (Paz Vega) goes to work for an American family where she is accepted as one of the family. Things take a turn when she begins to butt heads with the ignorant mother (Tea Leoni) and grows ever closer to the struggling father (Adam Sandler).

Review:

Tim: Weepy. That is how I would describe this movie in one word. It is not exactly sad, but just... weepy. The film has a good story and features good actors giving good performance. The movie feels like it was trying to be this powerful, moving film, and it comes up a little short, perhaps just one tier below where it needed to be.

I normally don't like Adam Sandler in dramatic, serious roles. Such is not the case here. He is every bit as likeable and enjoyable as in his ridiculous comedies. This performance leads me to believe he could have a serious career in drama if he so chose.

Tea Leoni gives a surprisingly good performance. I haven't seen this kind of all-out effort in I don't know how long. The role was a bit difficult, but she just nails it.

Who the hell is Paz Vega, and why is she so stunningly, amazingly good in the role? I'd almost think it was really Penelope Cruz, except Cruz couldn't act nearly this good. Vega very much impressed me, and I hope to see more of her in the future. The rest of the cast is good.

Spanglish is entertaining, a bit weep, and slightly heartwarming. It lacks a little bit of emotion, and it ends weakly. I would recommend this film because of the great performance, and for everything it tries so hard to be. You can definitely do worse, so why bother? See this movie.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating: 7



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