Review of Benny & Joon (1993) by Billie R — 04 Sep 2009

It takes a lot for me to love a love story. usually I end up frustrated at their sappy glossing over of the juicy bits that I actually find interesting about relationships. but "Benny and Joon" is full of the kind of sweet, funny moments you can reminisce about for years after watching it, while staying true to the difficulties facing the main characters.

I love that Joon (Mary Stuart Masterson), living in a working-class home with her brother Benny (Aidan Quinn), isn't thrust into either end of the madness spectrum-- neither crazy genius nor danger to herself &/or others--she's basically a regular person who happens to be insane. and Sam (Johnny Depp) is a regular person who happens to be weird enough to be totally perfect for Joon. but it isn't easy. Benny and Joon need to figure out how to end the unequal partnership that's making them both miserable, while making sure Joon's basic needs are provided for. it's not an easy problem to solve, and through this movie we get a glimpse of the social forces that come into play when a family member is disabled by mental illness. they are dealt with sensitively and (i think) realistically, and I love that it is all done from a strongly working-class perspective, where we take care of our own. all the main characters are played excellently, and they are backed by a stellar supporting cast.

This movie is multilayered and perfect for almost any mood. whether I want to ponder the deeper issues raised or just laugh and be entertained, I can pop it in and by the end I know I will be satisfied. a last note for Johnny Depp fans: this one is a must see! if you haven't witnessed his antics as Sam, you will be twice the fan after you do.