Review of 20th Century Women (2016) by Ted N — 19 Feb 2017
Rather too gentle and nostalgic coming-of-age movie featuring Annette Bening (who can do no wrong in my eyes) and a fine cast in a pleasant, mostly charming, wryly amusing account of three women of different generations living under her roof (she's a kind of Mrs Madrigal, if you remember Armistead Maupin) in 1979.
Each character seems to know they are unsure about themselves, and about those around them; but the greater unknowns are not inside, but out. None can know what is really awaiting them. Punk is almost dead already, and Reagan is about to come and light the fuse that leads to Trump.
The world is about to change in ways they cannot know, and all their personal problems will count for nothing in the tide of history that will sweep them along - and away. Superb performances from all.
Overall effect - rather depressing. Why anyone expects this to be a 'comedy', I have no idea.
This review of 20th Century Women (2016) was written by Ted N on 19 Feb 2017.
20th Century Women has generally received very positive reviews.
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