Film Filter: Off - As per a request by my mother, I decided to rent this movie from Blockbuster. She had said that it was really good, and for the most part, I'd be inclined to agree.
Pros- Firstly, I have to commend the cast of the film, as I thought all characters were portrayed very well, especially Esther and Kate.
Another one of the things this movie had going for it was the way it interpreted a commonly used storyline. The familiar adoption or inclusion of another person who deviates from the "norm" is seen in a variety of films, some done better than others. One of the keys to using this concept well is the ability to allow the audience to grow to empathize with/pity the antagonist before they become the antagonist, which this film does well.
It's also refreshing to see a dysfunctional family on screen. Too often families are portrayed a little too picture perfect, and it makes it difficult to relate to them or get behind them or their situation in the film. The combination of a once unfaithful husband to a once alcoholic wife who miscarried her third child but bore a normal son and a deaf daughter definitely defines this family as far from perfect.
Lastly, the twist toward the end of this film is truly unexpected, and very unique. It puts a lot of prior actions into perspective, and helps move the story along rapidly after it's revealed.
Cons- Although Esther's character is slightly, if not completely deranged, I think sometimes the extremes of her actions come off as a little unbelievable at times. Of course, we all understand that she's pretty nuts, and crazy people tend to be unpredictable, but so much of the movie has a realistic tone to it, that her outburst sort of feel out of place.
The only other thing that I can complain about in regards to this film is the stupidity of Kate's other two children. Bribed to keep Esther's secrets from their parents, they both find themselves unable to tell their mother about Esther's behavior, even though it will clearly cause someone harm in the long run. Most of the time Esther is present for any opportunity in which they could rat her out, but the one time she is not, both of the kids wimp out. It becomes innately frustrating throughout the film, as it puts almost all of the protagonists into a stupid, helpless situation.
Wrap-up- Overall, this movie was very well done, with quite an unexpected ending. Thanks for the recommendation, Mom!
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