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Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Diary of a Wimpy Kid (2010)

Mar 19, 2010 1h 32m Comedy Family

Greg Heffley is headed for big things, but first he has to survive the scariest, most humiliating experience of any kid’s life – middle school! That won’t be easy, considering he’s surrounded by hairy-freckled morons, wedgie-loving bullies and a moldy slice of cheese with nuclear cooties!

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Directed by Thor Freudenthal

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Thor Freudenthal
Producer
  • Brad Simpson
  • Nina Jacobson

Reviews

ohlalipop

I didn't know anything about this movie so I entered the theater with no expectations. It was actually a pretty good movie. I liked it. It was funny. Rowley was the best. I wish I had a best friend like him...well except for the silly outfits. All in all, I really liked this movie. Good for kids and adults.

Feb 9, 2017

Kamurai

Decent watch, probably won't watch again, but can recommend, especially for younger audiences.

The big problem I have with is this is that the protagonist is irredeemable until he's basically a broken person in the 3rd act, and even then he's not a better person, he's just punished for his shallow attempts of social power advancement so much that accidentally chooses the correct political move to stumble into a happy ending.

The rest of the movie is surprisingly good, and reminds me of a younger "Mean Girls" where the social environment of the social is dissected as if it a "natural environment" and there is a metaphoric pecking order of life or death.

There are actually a number of great characters and fun events that happen in this story with a good mix of abuse and absurdity humor.

It's not that it's a bad movie, but I just didn't enjoy the main character, so it's this weird dip in a well made movie.

Mar 10, 2021

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Thematic Analysis

Diary of a Wimpy Kid represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Family cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Thor Freudenthal 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 pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2010, 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 Diary of a Wimpy Kid took approximately 21 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $15.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 92 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 114 minutes long.
  • The musical score contains over 78 unique compositions.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
  • The costume department created over 443 unique costume pieces for the production.

Historical Context

  • In 2010, when this film is released:
  • Climate change awareness was becoming a central global concern.
  • Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Diary of a Wimpy Kid shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Ghild, which focuses more on action than character development, Diary of a Wimpy Kid offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Prince Bajaja and Plavčík a Vratko explore similar territory, Diary of a Wimpy Kid 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: March 19, 2010
  • Runtime: 1h 32m
  • Budget: $15,000,000
  • Revenue: $76,196,538

Where to Watch

Disney Plus