Review of Ruby Sparks (2012) by Jonny P — 13 Feb 2013

"Ruby Sparks" is the last movie that I expected to teach me so much about myself. This twist on the classic "Be careful what you wish for" series of events creates a deep representation of the dangers of trying to change someone who is already everything that you ever wanted.

It is amazing how quickly love can become miserable when contentment gives way to selfishness and insecurity, and this concept is so vivid that these writers must have experienced it. This clever script is filled with simple, perfect dialogue.

The only shame is that this dialogue is generally followed by one form of profanity or another. I really wish that there was a PG version of this film because the story and beautiful dialogue are cheapened by all of the f-words.

I am so happy that Paul Dano's career has not been defined by his role in "The Girl Next Door." He shows a lot of finesse in his acting and possesses a very likeable persona. Zoe Kazan is perfect as Ruby, radiant with an inexplicable charm that draws your attention just as much as it draws the main character.

Also, props to Elliott Gould in the role of the therapist. This film is not the cutesy love story that it appears to be on the surface; rather, it presents strong thematic statements about the dangers of manipulation and total reliance on one person.

It seems that "Ruby Sparks" was swept under the rug after its trailer came out (I didn't even know that it had been in theaters or came out on DVD) but you will be missing out if you don't make a point to experience the beautiful romantic dialogue and unpredictable story contained within.