FilmSnobReviews

Title: C’mon C’mon
MPAA Rating: R
Director: Mike Mills
Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Gaby Hoffman, Woody Norman
Runtime: 1 hr 49 mins

What It Is: Johnny (Phoenix) is a radio journalist. One who, while speaking to his sister Viv (Hoffman) discovers that his former brother-in-law Paul (Scoot McNairy) is ill. This will require Viv to keep an eye on Paul, who moved to San Francisco. Johnny agrees to watch his 10-year-old nephew Jesse (Norman). It’s a shock to the system for bachelor Johnny but one he’s willing to put the work into. Reconnecting with the family he had forgotten.

What We Think: Mike Mills is an absolute genius at documenting the human experience in a narrative format. He’s 4 for 4 on feature films. What this film does so brilliantly shows that we, as humans are flawed. That even at ten we have anxieties we may not know how to best deal with or express. Young Woody Norman is charming and revelatory. Joaquin Phoenix is his typical brilliant self. Gaby Hoffman isn’t getting enough love for her supporting performance here she’s amazing and I’d love for her to receive an Oscar nomination. From the screenplay to the black and white cinematography the calculated risks Mills take all work themselves out beautifully. All of the dialogue feels so organic and natural. These are conversations people have. It’s a slice-of-life film that really tug the heartstrings in the best ways possible.

Our Grade: A+, A stunning and beautiful piece. One that is made so well the simplicity of the story is countered by the technical mastery. This is easily one of the best films of 2021 and a welcomed spark in a dark, brooding experiences…and the more then occasional sequel sometimes something of this scale with this much heart is exactly the sentiment you need. A24 continue to strike gold. I can’t recommend this beautiful, brilliant film enough. Mike Mill’s is probably a genius. He’s made 4 films and all four range from good to excellent.