Rating of
3/4
Surprisingly Moving
Franz Patrick - wrote on 07/04/08
Even though the concept sounds ridiculous, I ended up really liking this film. Everything about it is so good-hearted, starting with Ryan Gosling's character, Lars. When he introduced his plastic (literally) girlfriend to the town, everyone was a little freaked out at first but they eventually came around and supported Lars. As unbelievable as it is for everyone to accept the doll as one of them, it's a nice message that there are communities out there that are willing to help no matter what. The humour is darkly funny at times, which I enjoyed, but it never crossed the line (it could've easily been a raunchy film). Everyone's very good in this film but Gosling is the star. During his dramatic moments, I completely believed him and I wished that he wouldn't suffer so much. Emily Mortimer is so angelic, adorable, and quirky; she was perfectly casted here. The problem I had is that the last twenty minutes got a little heavier than it should have been. Still, this is a solid film worth checking out. The whole doll situation made me laugh at first but I was surprised when I found myself completely engulfed with the story.
