Review of I Smile Back (2015) by Shane B — 15 Apr 2016

The first movie that's made me want to throw up but at the same time love it.

Silverman takes a break from her usual comedic portrayal and delivers an incredibly real performance.

Something about the rawness of Silverman's performance makes the film one of my favorites. She's desperately in love with her Husband and her kids, but her mental illness drives her to ends that she hates herself for. It's all too real - coming from someone who's watched a family member struggle with addiction. The game you play where you try to appear normal as a couple, but ruination looms over your relationship, threatening to tear your family apart. This is the first film I've seen that portrays it correctly.

Incredibly negatively moving. It brought up memories I didn't want to relive, but were oddly nostalgic. I don't recommend you watch it unless you're looking for a raw, uncensored look into a struggling family's dirty laundry. If you don't understand family bonds or aren't okay with your own dirty laundry, then don't bother. This is a movie that is sympathetic and enjoyable to a specific audience.