This is a highly critical acclaimed film about a modern family that consists of a lesbian couple Nic (a superb Annette Benning) and Jules (Julianne Moore) who have both had a child each by the same sperm donor. At the age of 18, their daughter Joni, (Mia Wasikowska) encouraged by her younger brother Laser (Josh Hutcherson) contact their sperm donor father, Paul (Mark Ruffalo) and start up an awkward yet sweet realtionship with him. Jules and Nic aren't sure about the realtionship, and Nic is very disaproving, but Jules starts up an unorthodox and sexual relationship with Paul, which eventually causes problems and rifts for them all.
I really like films that are more like character studies, focusing on the people and their relationships, and potentially a family which could exist in real life. This film is not afraid to leave the hollywood ideal, and to leap head first into quite unchartered areas. Ruffalo and Benning shine in their indie and complicated roles, but Moore disapoints a little bit, not bringing much likability to a character that should be quite likeable. Waikowska and Ruffalo are fine as the kids, but are underused in a film that should maybe focus more on them. For me, there is also unnecessary drug use and references that don't go anywhere, and sex scenes which are more cringeworthy than appropriately passionate.
Overall, this film is an attractive character based look at a modern and contemporary family. It feels real, and is to the merit of Lisa Cholodenko (director) that it doesn't feel too Hollywood. My main criticisms are with the lack of use of the teens, and the lack of empathy that Moore should make people feel.
3 and a half out of 5
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