Review of Away We Go (2009) by Martin I — 16 Nov 2011
A film with great acting, true heart and a brilliant script.
The journey of the central couple, trying to find the best place to move to when they child is born, seems simple and basic enough at the start. What evolves is an engaging look at peoples opinions and feelings towards children and how they raise them.
Some of the characters may be over the top for some, but they are almost all universally hilarious. Alison Janney is particular is a stand-out, as is Maggie Gyllenhaal's hippie mother character. The light-hearted look at an aimless couples mission to solve a serious problem is dealt with deftly, and with a real eye for balance by director Sam Mendes.
The awkwardness derived from the culture clashes and differences in opinions differ in presentation and tone. Although most are funny and draw understated sympathies for the happy-go-lucky couple; trying to figure out who they will be as parents along the way, we are given a look at tougher sides of parenthood toward the end.
What we're left with is a road movie that subtly challenges opinions on parenthood whilst maintaining a heart-warming centre that can't help but make you smile; even through the more thoughtful moments. Fantastic in every way. Makes you wonder why all films can't be this good.
This review of Away We Go (2009) was written by Martin I on 16 Nov 2011.
Away We Go has generally received positive reviews.
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