Review of The Kids Are All Right (2010) by Joshua B — 11 Aug 2011

Part of what makes The Kids Are All Right work is writer/director Lisa Cholodenko's understanding that family dynamics are one of the oldest and richest sources of compelling conflict, especially when filtered through themes of belonging and commitment.

The rest, and really the most important factor, of what makes it work is its brilliant cast. Annette Benning (whom I am not always a huge fan of) and Julianne Moore are perfect as a same-sex couple raising a family.

Their nuances allow the audience to pick out the moments and qualities about each character that foster love and, alternatively, resentment/boredom/apathy -- any number of qualities that make marriages fall apart -- in the other.

There are also some very funny moments in the film which keep it light while still dealing with heavy subject matter. It doesn't quite escape its sitcom premise -- it's ultimately no smarter or more stylish than an episode of Modern Family -- , but it is highly enjoyable.