Cast
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Robert De Niro
as Frank Goode
Drew Barrymore
as Rosie
Kate Beckinsale
as Amy
Sam Rockwell
as Robert
Melissa Leo
as Colleen
Damian Young
as Jeff
James Frain
as Tom
Katherine Moennig
as Jilly
Brendan Sexton III
as Mugger
James Murtaugh
as Dr. Ed
Austin Lysy
as David
Chandler Frantz
as Young David
Lily Mo Sheen
as Young Amy
Seamus Davey-Fitzpatrick
as Young Robert
Lucian Maisel
as Jack
Crew
Director
- Kirk Jones
Producer
- Vittorio Cecchi Gori
- Ted Field
- Glynis Murray
- Gianni Nunnari
- Nathalie Peter-Contesse
Reviews
Wuchak
**_Kind of boring road movie_**
Robert De Niro plays a widower who is down because his four kids all canceled on coming home for Thanksgiving, so he decides to go see each one instead (Kate Beckinsale, Sam Rockwell and Drew Barrymore), which entails traveling around the country over the next week or so.
I don't get all the positive ratings for this. Sure, it's well made, has a great cast and makes a good point, but it's just humdrum from beginning to end. Maybe the story works better for those who can relate to De Niro's character, but for everyone else this is a really slow and boring road movie. Being boring is the ultimate sin in cinema.
If you want to see Sam Rockwell and Kate Beckinsale in an outstanding drama, check out 2007's "Snow Angels."
GRADE: C
Apr 20, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Everybody's Fine examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Kirk Jones brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2009, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Everybody's Fine took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $21.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
- The final cut of the film runs for 99 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 147 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 8 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2009, when this film is released:
- The September 11 attacks changed global security and politics.
- Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While Everybody's Fine shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Loving Pablo, which focuses more on action than character development, Everybody's Fine subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Porch Pirates and Beach Rats explore similar territory, Everybody's Fine stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 4, 2009
- Runtime: 1h 39m
- Budget: $21,000,000
- Revenue: $16,443,609
Where to Watch
