The problem with the movie lies in the fact I found it could not be seemingly classed under drama. A few temperament outbursts and tears isn't my idea of dramatic acting, and there were too few laughs to classify it as comedy. After a slow start, the movie picks up better paces to establish itself.
Although the obvious intent of the screenwriter for "Anywhere But Here" was for it to be a plot driven movie, much of the film has the supporting actress, Natalie Portman, to be thankful for. Her portrayal of the confused teenager Ann August is essentially vital in pushing forward the story line. While not entirely show stealing, she remains the stronger actress in the movie over Susan Sarandon. Portman is the only teenage actress of her kind in the industry and is thankfully not queueing up for a role in the next Jennifer Love Hewitt type horror flick.
But I found the problems lay in the disjointed set up of events in the film. The coverage of approximately four years of Californian life between Mother and daughter is not the problem, but rather the short film establishment time of events. Much of the fault in the Susan Sarandon character, and everyone other than Portman, as a result of a lack of developing the characters. Ann's poignant point of view allows for maximum strong characterisation, but other supporting characters remain hollow like planks of wood. The lack of direction for fear of intrusion may be the problem.
Still, nonetheless, there are plenty of heartwarming and light moments. It is overall, an enjoyable farce. Mothers and their daughters will like it, for everyone else, think carefully before entering the cinema if you are looking for a movie which demands an engrossing screenplay.
Rating: 7/10
Although the obvious intent of the screenwriter for "Anywhere But Here" was for it to be a plot driven movie, much of the film has the supporting actress, Natalie Portman, to be thankful for. Her portrayal of the confused teenager Ann August is essentially vital in pushing forward the story line. While not entirely show stealing, she remains the stronger actress in the movie over Susan Sarandon. Portman is the only teenage actress of her kind in the industry and is thankfully not queueing up for a role in the next Jennifer Love Hewitt type horror flick.
But I found the problems lay in the disjointed set up of events in the film. The coverage of approximately four years of Californian life between Mother and daughter is not the problem, but rather the short film establishment time of events. Much of the fault in the Susan Sarandon character, and everyone other than Portman, as a result of a lack of developing the characters. Ann's poignant point of view allows for maximum strong characterisation, but other supporting characters remain hollow like planks of wood. The lack of direction for fear of intrusion may be the problem.
Still, nonetheless, there are plenty of heartwarming and light moments. It is overall, an enjoyable farce. Mothers and their daughters will like it, for everyone else, think carefully before entering the cinema if you are looking for a movie which demands an engrossing screenplay.
Rating: 7/10