Review of What's Eating Gilbert Grape (1993) by Campbell P — 23 Nov 2014

What's Eating Gilbert Grape is one of those movies that really makes you think. Johnny Depp's portrayal of Gilbert really made you think of who and what you want to be. Depp and Dicaprio really were standouts in this movie but the other characters besides Becky were not given enough background about.

The beginning of the movie we are introduced to the other characters but that's pretty much all we learn about them. I would've liked to learn more about their family and especially more about their brother that doesn't live their anymore.

The whole story itself was very interesting and fun. Though it was depressing at times it had a lot of heartfelt moments. Any moment between Becky and Gilbert or Arnie and Gilbert was really special and sweet.

There's really no way you can't enjoy those moments. I really liked John C Reilly in this movie too. His character was generally really nice and helpful and just always made me happy to see him acting.

I also really enjoyed seeing the changes that Gilbert goes through. He's constantly kinda in a eh mood but he's happy at times, sad, really mad, and caring. He has almost unlimited patience. The thing I didn't like about this movie is the whole Gilbert making deliveries to that one lady's house.

That character got irritating after a while and I didn't care for scenes with her in it. I was pleased when she left the movie. I really liked the ending. It ended on a total bittersweet note which was expected but what wasn't expected was the (spoiler!) death of an unexpected character! I was shocked actually! Through great storytelling but some eh scenes What's Eating Gilbert Grape has a great story, great performances, and a great ending.

B+.