Los Angeles Review: ‘Everything’s Going to Be Great’ Starring Bryan Cranston Shines Despite Weak Storyline
Flickbites 
The new coming-of-age dramedy “Everything’s Going to Be Great,” directed by Jon S. Baird, offers a heartwarming yet flawed glimpse into a theater kid’s unconventional childhood. Set in Los Angeles, the film follows a young boy navigating life with his starry-eyed father, an aspiring Broadway producer. While the premise promises an emotional journey down the winding roads of dreams and family challenges, the execution falls short of expectations.
Strong Performances
Bryan Cranston delivers a captivating performance as the ambitious father whose passion for theater drives much of the narrative. Cranston’s portrayal is layered, bringing charm and vulnerability to his character. Alongside him, Allison Janney adds depth and gravitas, elevating the material whenever the script feels thin. Their combined star power is undeniable and injects life into moments that might otherwise feel flat.
Character and Storyline Analysis
The film also features Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as the young protagonist, whose journey is at the heart of the story. His performance captures the innocence and confusion of navigating the parent-child relationship amidst the backdrop of a chaotic dream-chasing environment. However, the screenplay offers limited development for the supporting characters, making the family dynamics feel somewhat underexplored.
Direction and Tone
Jon S. Baird’s direction, known for projects like “Tetris,” brings a measured sensitivity and visual flair to the film. The pacing keeps audiences engaged, though the overall narrative lacks the emotional depth to truly resonate. The film’s attempt to blend comedy with drama creates an uneven tone at times, hindering its potential to leave a lasting impact.
Visuals and Soundtrack
Visually, the film captures the vibrancy of theater life and the juxtaposition between youthful ambition and adult realities. The production design and soundtrack complement the story well, immersing viewers into the world of aspiring artists and their families.
Summary
“Everything’s Going to Be Great” aims to celebrate familial bonds and the pursuit of dreams but struggles with storytelling that feels rushed and characters that lack full dimensionality. Fans of Bryan Cranston and Allison Janney will appreciate their efforts in making the film watchable, but those hoping for a deeply moving and tightly written dramedy might find it wanting.
Stay tuned for Flick Bites for more latest updates.
About The Author
