The Kids Are All Right - A Movie Review

Never take a family’s love for granted.

Released to theaters in 2010, The Kids Are All Right is about two children of a lesbian couple who want to find their biological dad. Meeting Paul, Joni and Laser form a bond with him. Questioning her own marriage, Paul causes problems in the once happy family.

The Kids Are All Right’s main theme is relationships. While watching this film, I was laughing, and it also made me think. No family is the same. The Kids Are All Right influences viewers to think openly about relationships and the dynamic of a family.

Julianna Moore, Annette Bening, Mia Wasikowska, and Josh Hutcherson explored a genuine family bond. Their relationship is the most integral part of the film. Each learns a lesson that tests them. Family should be able to talk about anything, instead of hiding secrets.

Moore and Bening were endearing in their onscreen relationship. They were adorable, sneaky, and they had their arguments. They display a wonderful example of a lesbian relationship. The actresses conquered profound scenes together, exploring their relationship. Bening especially delivered a strong moment using only her countenance.

Mark Ruffalo is another actor of his time who deserves more recognition. Paul’s character even tests you. Paul is a great example that not everyone you meet is trustworthy. As said perfectly in the film, a lot of Paul’s actions could have been better. I was practically shouting at the screen when he made one of the dumbest decisions.

His interactions with Joni and Laser were directed closely. Helping the kids with their issues, he does not recognize when he has gone too far. Ruffalo does a remarkable job in a persona that you wouldn’t normally see him cast in.

Joni and Laser’s roles are vital. Growing up is never easy. That’s what life is all about. Learning this lesson helps them grow, whether it was fair or unfair. Parents help guide us with lessons that we want or don’t want to learn. This film made me think back to my teen years. I am incredibly thankful to my parents and how they guided me.

Other credits include Yaya DaCosta, Kunal Sharma, Eddie Hassell, Zosia Mamet, Joaquin Garrido, and Rebecca Lawrence Levy.

The Kids Are All Right examines all friendships. Just because you may not see eye to eye with someone, friendship is defined as looking out for one another. It’s up to you to decide which friendships are worthy.

The Kids Are All Right got a standing ovation at its premiere at The Sundance Film Festival. Presenting her own story to the screen, Lisa Cholodenko defines family. She pays close attention to character interactions and relationships. Her direction was all about conversations. We get to know the characters through dialogue. The dialogue felt natural.

Cholodenko did an astounding job tracking emotions in one scene. Her direction, camera angles, and focus conducted a well-acted moment in a scene with multiple things going on at once. Editing was well-crafted following the perspective of the characters.

If The Kids Are All Right made you angry in any way, that means Choledenko did her job. This film is supposed to connect with audiences. There were some aspects of the story that could have been different, but the story was presented to conquer the message.

The film is a great example of the LGBTQ community. It’s a subject that has gone through its battles over decades. Positive representation makes this film what it is.

Not all audiences will like this film, but it’s important to give it a chance. Find The Kids Are All Right and enjoy it.