Review of Everything Must Go (2011) by Spencer S — 23 Apr 2012

Definitely not a comedy, and it certainly shows that this had to be stretched out from the original short story it was based upon, and yet it still remains a greatly dramatic film. It might be noted that this is a Will Ferrell film absent of Adam Mackay or any goofy antics, and though that charming indie distinction uselessly lessens an actor's response among their fans, this should be touted as a great performance from the funnyman.

I think people should rally around this film, because it really has a poignancy and bitter irony that comes with Raymond Carver's writing and an almost duplicitous performance from Ferrell. Lately Ferrell has really tried to cultivate better performances and has taken on roles that haven't been odd or strange, probably because of the low critical reception of his films Land of the Lost and The Other Guys.

He has collaborated with some seriously funny people as of late, but this film is anything but funny. Though it's a tale that isn't anything transcendent, it follows the plight of a man haunted by his past, tethered to a woman who he loves yet cannot carry him anymore, and the workings of his life in suburbia and the neighborhood that watches his decline in silence.

I can't stress enough how thoughtful and sensitive the writing of Raymond Carver is, and how his work is adapted with actual care by writer/director Dan Rush. Apparently the story was stretched to accommodate an actual run time, but it all comes through really well.

The relationship between the character of Nick (Ferrell) and Kenny (Wallace) was a great highlight, as well as a remarkable performance from Rebecca Hall as his pregnant neighbor. The tension between them was palpable, and really resonated while still not being coy about why it existed within the plot.

This is a performance of Ferrell you cannot miss.