Review of The Cake Eaters (2007) by Shaun C — 17 Mar 2009

Is it possible to enjoy a film but not understand the significance of the title? Yes and a quick glance at Urban Dictionary does not clear up the confusion. TCE is an old school independent film. Obviously, there is a low-budget feel to this production.

But that doesn't hinder the superb drama that unfolds. Not to mention the all-star ensemble cast. I would assume MSM used her show-biz contacts to assemble this impressive level of acting talent. But she must have been clairvoyant to hire KS right before her blow-up.

I was trying to figure out who she reminds of, but then it hit me: a young Julia Roberts. Especially after she cut her hair. I could watch AS and his facial expressions all day long. And the addition of Academy Award nominee Melissa Leo was another stroke of good luck.

If I had to criticize this production, I would say that the narrative is almost too subtle. The quiet understated quality of the storytelling prevents the movie from having any kind of real climax, and the immaculate tension set up never quite pays off.

In fact, the action ends abruptly, I would have liked to have seen the loose ends tied up.