ALL THE REAL GIRLS
Released: February 14, 2003
Director David Gordon Green and his co-writer Paul Schneider, who also plays the main character, Paul, have woven a love story that takes out all the cheesey Hollywood romance stereotypes out and leaves only unadorned realism. While the real life feel can be a tad forced (ie: trying to hard to appear unscripted and "real"), this movie has more honesty and care for its characters than 99% of the product on offer at your local multiplex. The movie is a boy-meets-girl story but told in a way that rings true more often than not because I actually could relate to what was going on. Told in an almost plotless documentary style built up via short vignettes, the story is nothing new but the way it's told is. By intentionally avoiding the generic romantic movie trappings, the film is a treat to watch because you're not being bashed over the head with silly Hollywood lines or happy endings. The movie is also a showcase for one of my favorite actresses, Zooey Deschanel. You may recall her as the sister of the young Rolling Stone reporter in "Almost Famous". She really shines here. Actually, the whole cast is pretty amazing. From Schneider to co-stars Shea Wingham, Danny McBride and Patricia Clarkson - they all come to the table without the traditional generic character traits. Thanks are largely due to writer/actor Paul Schneider and director David Gordon Green. For a beautifully photographed and scored movie with a fine script and fine performances, you gotta see "All The Real Girls".
108 Minutes
Sony Picture Classics/Sony