Film Review: The Kids Are Alright

 

By Dan Paine

The Allgood’s are a modern Southern Californian family. There’s 14-year old Laser

who is looking for teenage fun and 18-year old Joni who is about to head off to Stanford

University.

Jules (Julianne Moore) and Nic (Annette Benning) are their mums and have been

together and in love for years, but the “happy family” is challenged when Laser talks Joni

into tracking down their sperm-donor dad Paul (Mark Ruffalo).

Hilarity and real dilemmas ensue as the films pitch-perfect commentary of modern family

dynamics unolds. It rides a fine line between comedy and drama that American films

often find hard to achieve.

This film was reportedly the biggest word-of-mouth film at this year’s Sundance Film

Festival. “Uproariously funny! A flawless ensemble…Whip smart and witty. Invigorating

and fresh.” (New York Magazine)

4 stars.