Los Angeles Review: ‘Everything’s Going to Be Great’ — Cranston and Janney Struggle to Lift This Light Coming-of-Age Dramedy
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‘Everything’s Going to Be Great,’ directed by Jon S. Baird, centers on the story of a theater kid growing up with an unconventional and starry-eyed father who dreams of becoming a Broadway producer. The film attempts to explore the complexities of familial relationships and personal growth through a coming-of-age dramedy lens. Bryan Cranston and Allison Janney lead the cast, bringing considerable talent to their respective roles—Cranston as the hopeful yet flawed father and Janney delivering a strong, heartfelt presence.
Despite the celebrated cast and the director’s past success with ‘Tetris,’ the film struggles with a weak screenplay characterized by:
- Thinly sketched characters
- A storyline lacking depth and emotional resonance
- Scattered narrative that misses new insights into ambition, parenting, and self-discovery
The young actor portraying the theater kid provides moments of genuine vulnerability, adding sincerity and warmth. However, the script fails to fully support his character’s development. The film’s pacing and tone fluctuate inconsistently between earnest drama and light comedy, without achieving a harmonious balance.
Visually, the movie uses its settings effectively to reflect the protagonist’s inner world and theatrical environment. Yet, the opportunity for a profound exploration of family dynamics and personal growth remains largely untapped.
Final Verdict
Everything’s Going to Be Great offers charms and commendable acting performances but is ultimately weighed down by a screenplay that does not provide a compelling or richly nuanced story. While fans of Cranston and Janney may appreciate their portrayals, viewers seeking a standout coming-of-age drama may find the film lacking.
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