Little Miss Sunshine

Over the weekend I saw Little Miss Sunshine. It tells the story of an unconventional, but loving family who go on a road trip so that their youngest member can enter a ‘Little Miss Sunshine’ contest.

It’s really very good, warm and funny, without being cringeworthy. The characters are all very good and even although they’re not all very nice, they are all likeable.

The ensemble cast work well together. Toni Collette is pretty much good in whatever she’s in. Here she’s the Mother of the family, gamely trying to support everyone in their own personal endeavours.

Steve Carrell, who is more noted as a wacky comic lead, plays against type as a miserable Proust scholar recovering from a failed suicide attempt.

Greg Kinnear is a would be life coach trying to get his dream off the ground.

Alan Arkin is probably the star turn though as the rebellious grandfather, raking drugs, swearing and insisting that his introverted grandson, get himself ‘some young ass, cos that’s the best kind of ass you’ll ever get’.

Although there are a few unbelievable coincidences that drive the plot along, it’s a feel good movie without there being any sugar sweet moments.

The website is interesting as it’s a collection of blog like links to pieces about the film, including what looks like specially created sites.

It’s well worth seeing before it disappears from the cinema.