Review of Laggies (2014) by Matt C — 08 Nov 2014

This movie should be cute, is bound to be cute, and is actually cute. Knightley, Moretz, and Rockwell give typically great performances, all giving realism to their characters. Lynn Shelton's direction is empathetic and helps elevate the film's somewhat contrived script, in addition to creating fluid tone changes and engaging pacing.

This movie continues Keira Knightley's random recent streak of being adorable and like able without ever overshadowing others. She killed it in Begin Again earlier this year, as she does here. My main concern was her character and how the film would portray her, but luckily, she gives off several shades of the same character and therefore creates a sense of legitimacy.

The trailer paints her character's actions as incredibly selfish and almost mean, but it's actually just how the previews are edited together. Characters make mistakes, but they aren't let off for doing so.

Just as the acting elevates the script, Shelton's direction does as well. It's not to say that the script isn't good, because it is, carrying some themes and symbolism without being excessive.

The character interactions are realistic and perfectly believable, and the jokes are funny and work well. The main setup--a 28-year-old staying with a 16-year-old and her single dad--is understandably awkward to think about, but they make a strong joke about it and are aware of it.

As stated earlier, characters' wrongdoings are portrayed empathetically but they aren't ever completely let off the hook. That aspect mostly comes across in both the acting and direction. Overall, Laggies is thoroughly enjoyable and never less than watchable.

It's not like people will be quoting it like it's Bridesmaids or something, but it's just so cute and surprisingly balanced. Here's hoping that it's semi-awful title won't drive audiences away.

8/10, really good, one thumb up, above average, etc.