Movie Review: The Good House

 

Michael’s Movie Grade: C+

An uneven dramatic comedy but one with some really good moments. 

This film works best as a character study. The main character is very relatable and likable but also incredibly flawed. She has had a history of drinking problems but thinks she has a handle on it, even though sometimes it can still get the better of her. Even if you are a teetotaler, it is easy to relate to her because we have all felt feelings of hurt, pain, regret and denial. This movie does a great job of exploring these feelings and making us put ourselves in her shoes. When you reach the climax of the film (which is very well done and a highlight of the film), these feelings all come together very well and you get quite emotionally involved. While the climax does make you wish the rest of the movie was as good, it also shows that the parts of this film that worked really worked. All this is of course boosted by a wonderful performance from Sigourney Weaver, who once again proves what a great actress she is. This is also a beautiful looking film that really captures the beauty of this small seaside town.

The romantic aspect of this movie is pleasant enough. There is nothing great or original about this part of the film. However the clichés and familiarities still have a charm to them because of the great performances, the chemistry and the easygoing quality to most of these scenes.

Unfortunately, the humor in this movie is never as funny as it should be. There are a few smiles, but no real laugh out loud moments. There is also quite a lot of fourth wall breaking with the main character talking directly to the audience, but this doesn't work. It is neither funny or clever and can too often be overly expository. There are times when this can take you right out of the movie. The main problem with this film is that the more serious scenes clash with the more lighthearted scenes, making this sometimes feel like two separate films. The movie tries to be both a lighthearted romantic comedy and a serious character study, but would have been much better if it was one or the other. 

This may not be a great movie, but what it does well really works.