The Squid and the Whale

No surprise critics like this movie they are the same strand of people that pick the oscars which most people don't like. This movie was cheaply done, the acting is about as simple as can be and the dialog monotone and simple, heaven forbid more than a sentence is someones line. Really not worth the price I paid

I am a big fan of movies that allow me to feel. Whenever I watch an action movie or a suspenseful thriller, I don't feel- normally I end up walking away from the movie feeling as though I just watched a piece of garbage… and usually, I will end up forgetting the film. When I watch a movie that reminds me of a piece of my life, or if I am able to take something from the movie and apply it to my life to make a positive difference, THAT is when I know that I've come across a true work of art. When I'm able to remember the movie and think "This is more than a movie, this is life" I become so more more appreciative of the film. This movie reminds me a lot of my own childhood- the fighting, the fear, the confusion of being torn between two parents who went from being gods one day to screw-ups the next. When you turn to whatever it is that makes you feel good and you become addicted to it because there are very few things in life that make you feel good about being yourself… this movie was extremely realistic and heart wrenching, and I just wanted to hug the little boy and tell him that everything was going to be alright, that he can put the beer can down and start a better life as of right now. Not many movies can do that, and I am thankful that this is one that can.

I have this as one of my favorite movies of all time! It takes us back to Brooklyn NY in the mid-80's where a family (mom, dad, and two boys) living together. The father is a really bitter guy that is very difficult to deal with. He has a very pessimistic view of the world and this pessimism is rubbing off on his family. The movie starts out with a family discussion about the mother and father getting separated, and then follows the family (mostly the kids) and how they deal with this period in their lives. I really think this is one of the best movies ever made, and if you grew-up in the 80's you will think this is a great movie. Oh yeah - the music is really great also!

please make it available to rent!!

This movie attempts to be intellectual, but fails miserably. I would suggest renting a Woody Alan movie if you are looking for a quirky, dry, smart, witty comedy.

I normally do not write reviews, but I felt compelled to do so for this movie. I watched it based on the positive reviews that were given here, but I felt cheated after doing so. Although the premise of the movie seemed interesting, I found the script/plot to be completely terrible. I felt disgusted that I had actually wasted my time and money on this movie. Perhaps it has an underlying symbolism that I was unable to appreciate, but I would advise people to NOT watch this movie. Watch other movies that have these actors (Jeff Bridges, Laura Linney,etc.), but skip this one.

great movie.... almost to truthful about death and or transformation of a loved one. My father just passed and i guess you can say that death and divorce are the same thing. You use what you have left as leverage to get what you want. Unfortunately what you wanted is not always what you get.

Life is not all rainbows and sunshine. This movie makes it clear. There is an honesty in the characters, their behavior and the plot line that makes this movie so compelling, heartbreaking and awkwardly heartwarming. The story line, while a bit twisted at times, tells a truth that most of us can relate to. And while some may be put off by the vulnerable and downright selfish nature of the characters, there is something to be said about an actress or actor who can stir up that sort of disdain, they've kept you in it, no matter how vile you find them to be. And i found parts of this movie to be heartwarming. There is a bond in a family that you can never escape and sometimes, you just have to grow up and face it for yourself.

this movie is basically my parents divorce with a couple changes. although i didn't turn out to be as screwed up as these kids were, i can relate to the situation. it's tough to handle, but it's honest.

overall a good movie...somewhat depressing...but the kid whipes his pearl jam on stuff which kinda wierded me out a bit. its worth renting though.