Review of Submarine (2011) by Leighton T — 04 Nov 2011

Well, I agree that this is quirky, original, the characters are real, the dialogue is insightful... but when it was all over I just didn't find much "comedy" in the film (which is only an issue since it's billed as a comedy). To me the psychic ninja Graham was the funniest thing in the movie, but the pains of being an awkward social creature in a school surrounded by mean-spirited kids isn't my idea of fun.

I generally like coming-of-age stories, and I did enjoy the way Oliver thinks he's just got everything figured out, including his favorite authors like Nietzche... haha, sure. I also liked Oliver's parents, who were believable in their dialogue and marital challenges.

But for me it just didn't do much. Somewhat mournful, lacking in emotional resonance (perhaps for lack of connection with the "stars"), even if well-produced, written and acted.