the descendants.

After much procrastination, I finally managed to drag myself to the cinema to check out The Descendants. This movie held quite a few draw cards for me. This movie is by the amazing Alexander Payne (writer-director) - his first since Sideways. Obviously with Clooney as the main man I was already there, but I had also heard excellent reviews for this movie. And I have to say, I am now banging out about how wonderful this movie was.

First of all, I love that this movie was 'normal'. The costumes were normal, the homes were normal, the settings were normal, even the actors (minus the Cloon-meister) were normal... none of the over-the-top size 6 models who barely anyone can relate to. 

I had been warned this movie was sad, sure... we've all seen the ad stating his wife is cheating on him. But I certainly wasn't prepared for what was to come. It started with the lump in my throat about 30 minutes in and led to me in agony trying to get rid of it. I got teary in a few scenes... until the end. When I wept. I actually wept. I couldn't dry my eyes quick enough, my chin was quivering and I think I even let a few sobs out. Not good. At least I had enough sense to wait until the cinema was empty and sneak out with my tear-stained companions.

Don't let this turn you off though. It's really funny as well. The characters of his two daughters are executed perfectly by Shailene Woodley and Amara Miller. The mix of characters and story lines, light and dark allows for this movie to flow easily and seamlessly.

Without giving away any spoilers: Clooney. Hawaii. Bad parenting. Questionable choices. Clooney. Million dollar deals. Pain. Clooney. Property. Family. Laughter. 

I urge you to go see it - if only to see Clooney in Hawaiian shirts and Harry-high pants.

Images from: filmcritic.com, blackmanandrobin.com