Now, I like French films, because they are always character driven. American films are normally driven by action and/or schtick comedy. The lowest grade. Here is a film that has it all, excluding schtick. There isn't a moment that is not completely riveting. Deniro plays the father, Drew Barrymore, one of the daughters, along with kate Beckinsale and Sam Rockwell, as one of two sons. There is another son, David, but he has overdosed on drugs when this story gets started. This viewer has seen Deniro in everything he has done on film, but his tired, bewildered father is incredible. As in all of his work, he shows you his entire life in every scene, whatever his choices, his life is there between the lines and you can feel it. What an actor this man is. He wasn't tough in this one, just loving and compassionate. On the other hand, you knew was a tough father. As a matter fact, there is a scene with the kids when they were youngsters where we see him disciplining the children harshly, but the love behind it is palpable. Drew Barrymore. I'm always happy to see her. She's like our child, who has grown up to be extraordinary. From a engaging child in E.T. to Never been kissed, Charlie's Angeles and finally this wonderful grown up woman, who is afraid to admit she is a lesbian. I just love her art. Kate Beckinsale is astonishing. An Aussie, who masters the American Language, as if it were her own. From the horror films and well done, by the way. She plays action as if she lives it. But, this daughter is not an action hero, she is a caring and doting off-spring, compassionate and wise. Just as consumed by protecting her father as the others. Sam Rockwell has never seized to amaze. The first time for me in Galaxy Quest, then Dangerous Mind and many others. He is an artist through and through. This movie should be watched and savored for generations to come.
Review of Everybody's Fine
