The Family Stone
2005
This is one of the few of Mr. Wilson's movies that I saw in the theatre. It remains one of my very favorites of all his films.
Admittedly, though, a good portion of it is just painful for me to watch. It does not shy away from awkwardness, from gritty honesty. It's like Meet the Parents, but on a much more emotional, more realistic level. It's still very comedic and clever in its own right, but certainly a different brand than the Stiller/DeNiro dynamic. This is all precisely why I like it. As far as 'holiday movies' go, this one seems remarkably substantial.
I love the interactions among the family members. I love the intermittent sign language. It all seems quite genuine and natural. As a person with a fairly large family, it makes me long for holidays with my siblings.
There's also just no chance I can watch this movie without tearing-up. Surely this is a further testament to the film's success. It's funny and entertaining, but it's got heart.
For Mr. Wilson's part, I have to add 'Ben Stone' to the list of my all-time favorite Luke Wilson characters. He's kind, blunt, charming and adorable. And (***spoiler***) am I not at least the slightest bit pleased that he ends up with the Meredith-character by the film's end? :)
In any case, I know it's sappy, but I really love this film. Maybe check it out this Christmas, if you're in to that sort of thing.
MERE'S OFFICIAL RATING: 5 out of 5 stars
You might nearly spit out or choke on your sandwich a time or two. Use caution...
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Mini's First Time
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