Review of Grace Is Gone (2007) by Trisha O — 10 Sep 2008

The local English newspaper in Amsterdam, gave a short brief and good review of this movie. On IMDb, it was a mixed bag of reviews ? some of them really critical about the movie. My initial euphoria to go and see the movie faded fast, but still I went to see the movie ? because I had promised to accompany my colleague ? Claudia.

The movie is about Stanley Phillips (John Cusack) and his two daughters Heidi (Shelan Okeefe) and Dawn (Gracie Bednarczyk). Philips wife Grace is in military and serving in Iraq. One day the news comes in of her death. Philip is shocked, but he does not have courage to tell the news to his daughter. In turn, he decides to take them to take his daughters on a road trip to a Children Theme Park. Along the road he agrees to be cheerful and happy and give his daughters whatever they wish for. At the very end, when he tells them ? it gets very emotional.

It is typical small budget, cute and simple story. John Cusack who is also the producer of the movie ? acts his role of Stanley with perfection to the core. Each and every twitch of his eye and expression are measurable with the pain and agony that is there in his heart. He enacts this role brilliantly. Hats off to him. The two daughters ? though not much historics to display ? are good as supporting cast.

There are many emotional and sad moments in the film, and I would advice to carry your tissues and handkerchiefs along with you ? if you are those senti types like me.

This is the first movie of Director James C. Strouse, and he has done an above average job in direction. I would not say brilliant. If it was not with the great acting of John Cusack, this movie would have fallen flat as any other ordinary movie.

Surprisingly Clint Eastwood has given musical score for this movie. One more feather on his cap. Wow ? it was not strikingly noticeable, but was good.

I understand the few critical comments on some reviewers after seeing the film ? like US military not allowing men with eye problems, and the cinematography. Both critical comments though correct ? they are too minor to take away the goodness and touchiness of the film. Yes the camera work was a big let down for me too. The cinematography was out of place and majorly looked like I am seeing a 1970s movie ? the type of film (or negative used).

But overall, a very pleasant and heart warming experience to see this movie.

(Stars 6.5 out of 10).