Review of Men, Women & Children (2014) by Tom M — 22 Sep 2015

Despite negative press, I found myself compelled by almost every aspect of this film. The characterization was compelling because of how real it felt, with poignant world views as told through teenagers, but still caught in the same mistakes teenagers make. Likewise the decisions and mistakes of the adult figures seemed real and genuine, and seeing the stories intertwine, cross paths, and go their separate ways was done beautifully and artfully. I constantly found myself invested, humored, and heartbroken.

Unfortunately, this praise does not extend to how the film wraps itself up, feeling cliche, and, a first as far as I'm concerned for Reitman, uninspired. Despite this, I feel the good of the film far outweighed the bad, and, while I know there are notable flaws, particularly in the third act, the negative word of mouth (and at points hatred) this film gets baffles me.