POSITIVES…
As an emotional and uplifting drama, this one is nicely directed and told.
Naomi Watts successfully draws you into her character’s devastating journey as Sam Bloom.
Part of the compelling nature of this story, is that with Watts’ talent, you truly feel Sam’s struggles and her triumphs in an intimate way.
The magpie (or magpies?) who plays Penguin is incredible in this. I swear, I thought the bird really was acting on cue, and only made the relationship she had with the Bloom family all the more believable.
Supporting casts are fantastic in this. From Griffin Murray-Johnston, Andrew Lincoln, Rachel House, Jacki Weaver, and more.
Narrative and plot progression is nicely paced. This movie knows not to hit you over the head too much with it being overly tragic. Penguin the magpie does help there.
Loved the voice over monologues that Noah gets to say in this.
Heartbreaking moments landed really well.
The pictures of the real life Blooms that show up during the credits are just beautiful.
NEGATIVES…
While based on a true story, there are some familiar plot tropes that happen as if on cue.
Not exactly the most exciting or visually dynamic movie to watch.
Arguable too straight-forward and too low-key of a movie, that it might not stand out too much as that memorable of a watch.
lovedit ENJOYED IT likedititsokayitsmehitsterrible
