Los Angeles Premiere: Bryan Cranston Shines but Can’t Save ‘Everything’s Going to Be Great’ from Thin Plot
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Everything’s Going to Be Great, directed by Jon S. Baird, known for his work on ‘Tetris,’ portrays the story of a theater kid navigating an unconventional childhood alongside his starry-eyed father who dreams of Broadway stardom. The film attempts a coming-of-age dramedy set against themes of youthful ambition and familial challenges but struggles with a thin, underdeveloped plot.
Bryan Cranston shines as the hopeful yet flawed father, bringing his signature charisma and emotional depth to the role. Allison Janney complements Cranston with her seasoned acting skills, though their performances only moderately enhance the somewhat superficial script. Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, playing the theater kid caught between dreams and reality, delivers a heartfelt and authentic emotional core to the film.
Direction and Screenplay
Jon S. Baird’s direction aims to balance humor and drama, but the limited depth of the screenplay restricts the cast’s full potential. While the film touches on familial bonds, aspiration, and personal growth, these themes are not explored with the nuance they deserve. The overall story feels underdeveloped, leaving audiences craving more substance despite engaging visuals and strong performances.
Setting and Supporting Elements
Set largely in a world aspiring to Broadway’s glitz and glamour, the film’s tone and setting complement the characters’ dreams well. However, the supporting characters and subplots lack definition, contributing further to the thinness of the narrative. Fans of Cranston and Janney will appreciate their compelling portrayals, but viewers seeking a richly textured dramedy may find the film lacking.
Final Thoughts
Everything’s Going to Be Great is an earnest but uneven look at family complexities and ambition. While Bryan Cranston and Allison Janney deliver noteworthy performances, the limited script material curtails the film’s impact. The movie serves as a reminder that great acting can elevate a film, but a solid, well-developed script remains essential to truly resonate with audiences.
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