Beginners

USA 2011, 105 minutes
Dir. Mike Mills
English
Rating: [M]
Genres: Drama, Comedy / Independent, Romance, LGBT

Feat. Ewan McGregor, Christopher Plummer, Mélanie Laurent, Goran Visnjic

“The film's special mixture of sadness, comedy and hope sneaks up on you and stays in your memory.”~Joe Morgenstern, Wall Street Journal

Aroview: Semi-autobiographical tale from the dir. of THUMBSUCKER reconciles two relationships in the life of a 38-year-old graphic artist (McGregor) who grieves for his dying father and his history of failed romances.

Filled with philosophical epigrams (including a dog who speaks in subtitles), this works best when reflecting on generational shifts and Christopher Plummer provides delightful contrast to the maudlin modern romance (with French actress Melanie Laurent) as the sprightly dad who came out as gay in his seventies after 'committing' to 45 years of marriage. Audience dividing, enjoyment is levied upon one's level of empathy with the characters.

Footnote: The director is the husband of Miranda July, director of ME, YOU AND EVERYONE WE KNOW and THE FUTURE.

NZ International Film Festival 2011