Cinematic Point Of View

Over the past weekend I was out with my youngest son looking for some place to eat lunch. We happened by the Movie Tavern and looked up to see what was playing. The Ryan Reynolds comedy ‘IF‘ was starting in 20 minutes.

We decided “Sure, why not?”

I have to admit that the trailers did nothing for me but I figured it was more geared for little kids so that made sense. My expectations were pretty much at zero going in.

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this movie.

Story, Cast, and Craft

Directed by John Krasinski and starring Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, Cailey Fleming, and Fiona Shaw, ‘IF’ is a simple story about young girl who goes through a difficult life experience involving her parents and starts to see everyone’s imaginary friends.

Right out of the gate, this film pulls a Pixar ‘Up’ opening montage tear-jerker. There are many moments that will likely pull at your heart. Well, they got me anyway. Guess I’m just reaching that age. This film deals touches of some serious life and death issues. I was a little concerned about my 10-year old but he’s pretty good with grown up stuff.

The story unfolds at a fast pace. All of the characters are likeable and/or annoying depending on your mood. Steve Carell and Phoebe Waller-Bridge do the bulk of the voice over for the animated characters. There is a sweetness about the whole thing that wants to be a bit Willy Wonka but in the end lands as it’s own unique thing. Good for them!

I really don’t want to give away much of anything on the characters. Knowing as little as possible going in, I think, helped me have a better experience.

The cinematography is nice and clean, shots have an easy. dreamy quality framed by a wonderfully sentimental score by Michael Giacchino. I found myself listening to it today while writing this up.

Conclusion

As my son said as we were walking out of the movie “it’s a nice family film with good character designs.” And he’s right. I could see this simple concept turning into a Peacock TV series honestly. It practically writes itself.

It will likely make you laugh, smile, shed a tear, and think about your life a little bit. Can’t ask much more from a film sometimes. A pleasant way to spend a Saturday at the theater but also a good rental for sure.