Los Angeles Review: Bryan Cranston and Allison Janney Struggle to Lift ‘Everything’s Going to Be Great’
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Everything’s Going to Be Great is a coming-of-age dramedy set in Los Angeles that explores the life of a theater-loving young boy living under the influence of his overly optimistic father, who aspires to be a Broadway producer. Directed by Jon S. Baird, known for his previous work on Tetris, the film had the potential to be a heartfelt story but ultimately falls short due to its thinly written script and underdeveloped characters.
Performances
The film is led by Bryan Cranston and Allison Janney, who bring star power and strong acting skills to their roles. Cranston plays the father with a blend of charm and delusion, while Janney delivers her usual nuanced performance. However, despite their efforts, neither can fully elevate the material, which often feels clichéd and lacks emotional depth.
Plot and Narrative
The story focuses on the young protagonist’s struggle to balance his passion for theater with the challenges of life in an unconventional family. While the premise holds promise, the film struggles to effectively balance its comedic and dramatic aspects. Moments of genuine emotion appear but are overshadowed by uneven pacing and underdeveloped storyline which fails to create a lasting impact.
Direction and Production
Jon S. Baird’s direction is competent but lacks a distinctive flair that could have deepened the film’s resonance with audiences. The visuals and production design adequately capture the essence of a struggling family holding onto their dreams. Nonetheless, the screenplay’s lack of complexity limits the film’s ability to fully engage viewers.
Conclusion
In summary, Everything’s Going to Be Great offers heartfelt intentions but is restrained by an underwhelming script. The performances of Bryan Cranston and Allison Janney are commendable but only partially succeed in lifting this thinly sketched dramedy. Fans of coming-of-age stories and character-driven dramas might find some moments to appreciate, but the film ultimately doesn’t reach its full potential.
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