Review of Lars and the Real Girl (2007) by Esteban G — 28 Dec 2011

Lars and the Real Girl is a very touching film with great performances from all the cast, especially Ryan Gosling. He plays Lars, a very lonely man who sits in solitary and does not like to be touched.

However he is not aggressive, he is a likeable character, very serene. He lives in the garage of his brothers house, Gus (Paul Schneider) who is married to Karin (Emily Mortimer). Karin is a sweet sister in law who is worried about Lars since she sees he is a very lonely person.

Lars only goes to work and church but besides that he lives in the dark in the garage. To their surprise one day Lars shows up at the house and introduces them to his new girlfriend, Bianca. Bianca happens to be a doll, but Lars treats her as a real life person.

Patrica Clarkson plays the psychiatrist who treats Lars and Bianca and recommends his family to play along with him and treat Bianca as a real person. Soon the entire community gets involved and their love for Lars translates into accepting Bianca.

The film is full of emotions, there are several funny moments in the film but there are very touching moments as well. Ryan Gosling is great as Lars and his facial expressions say more than words. He makes the audience feel for Lars in the same way he makes the entire town feel for him.

Everyone is willing to help and play along and Bianca becomes part of everyones life as they get her involved with a hospital, a school, a shopping mall, and a hair salon. Kelli Garner also stands out in this film as the girl who is in love with Lars and is hoping he will get well soon since he manages to ignore her.

Ironically the doll helps Lars get a little more involved with the rest of the town. The story is very well written and has some great performances. This is a film you will enjoy and that will have you experiencing a mix of emotions.

This is a very touching film and an interesting insight to people who suffer from delusions. Overall great film, great performances, and a great soundtrack that adds to the mood of the film. This was probably the most touching film of 2008 along with Reign Over Me.