Lars and the Real Girl

Even though the film appears to be something strange, and indeed it is something strange, it can quite easily captivate you. If you don't mind a bit of quirkiness, somewhat odd characters, but still interestingly developed relationships and an original story, then you'll truly enjoy the film. (2016-12-20)

The story was considerably far-fetched, but I have to admit that it was a great story about a person’s life, even though one of the main characters seemed a bit lifeless. I really enjoyed this, I only had to keep my cynicism in check. (2020-11-03)

An excellent film for the discerning. It's almost as if it fell out of Scandinavian films, but even snowy Canada can do wonders. Ryan Gosling deserves all the accolades, as does the brilliant script, which didn't have it easy. But it was good work and the perceptive viewer could learn something about mental illness, among other things. (2022-10-15)

Shy and introverted people have a hard time in life and often encounter a barrier of human misunderstanding and indifference. However, director Craig Gillespie is not as interested in his introverted and eccentric protagonist as he is interested in the community that surrounds Lars and must deal with his absurd idea. It is essentially a very relaxed film that highlights the ability of the community to come together and help where in real life dramatic conflicts, intolerance, cruelty, and mockery would prevail instead. Lars essentially has within reach the love of a charming and likable girl, friends, and understanding relatives, he just misses them in a certain moment. This is seldom how things work in real life. In terms of its content, the film reminds me of the comedy Bark! by director Kasia Adamik, except that Lars and the Real Girl is more professional and visually expressive from a film perspective. Essentially, a pleasant comedy for a one-time watch. Overall impression: 60%. (2009-03-28)

This film could have been even better if it had focused more on the causes of Lars’s condition and did more digging into his psyche (as in Awakenings). But even the simpler path that the creators have taken, i.e. a visit to a village, full of kindness in the style of Lasse Hallström, when the eccentric protagonist finds the support of his kind, understanding neighbors, has its charms. Their take is original, appealing to the more sensitive viewer and offering charming humor and a subtle balance between reality and a colorful idealist world. And for this, you’d need quite a lot of screenwriting and directing talent. I’m giving this four stars not only for the excellent Ryan Gosling, but for ALL of the actors. It wouldn’t have worked without them. And also for Paul Schneider’s wise definition of adulthood. (2009-02-13)