Composite Score: 81.33

Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Gaby Hoffmann, Woody Norman, Scoot McNairy, Molly Webster, and Jaboukie Young-White

Director: Mike Mills

Writer: Mike Mills

Genres: Drama, Family

MPAA Rating: R for language

Box Office: $3.87 million worldwide

Why should you Watch This Film?

                C’mon C’mon is one of the most wholesome R-rated films I have ever seen – up there with John Favreau’s Chef, just a little more “artsy”. The performances from both Joaquin Phoenix as Johnny and Woody Norman as his 9-year-old nephew Jesse moved me quite literally to tears by the end of the film. The actors’ chemistry is impressive – watching a child actor hold his own with Oscar-winner Phoenix scene in and scene out is a thrilling experience. The story’s simplicity allows the characters and their thoughts to shine through as they discover profound truths about the world and themselves and reveal them to the audience. Also, the film looks really good. The black-and-white cinematography shot on modern cameras makes for a visual experience on level with few others. Definitely see this film!

Why shouldn’t you Watch This Film?

                Some aspects of the film could possibly be explored more deeply, as they were left intentionally vague throughout the film. The nature of Jesse’s father’s condition is hinted at, but never explicitly stated, making the film’s take on mental health possibly fall flat for people looking to that theme as the dominant factor of the film. The nature of Johnny’s job, also, is left somewhat up to context clues to figure out, throwing the interview moments of the film into a little bit of confusion, as some viewers might not understand their purpose. However, the film’s ambiguities certainly add to the film’s overall impact. By leaving Paul’s condition mostly unspoken and doing the same with Johnny’s occupation, the viewer is allowed to insert their own understanding upon the film, rewarding those who do with a deeper connection to the overall story.

                Also, if you don’t like kids, this movie is not for you. Not only does it heavily feature Woody Norman as Jesse – our 9-year-old protagonist – throughout the film, children from around the U.S. are interviewed about their views on the future and their friendships and parents. If for whatever reason you are one of those who does not feel any need at all to listen to the words of children, then this film probably will not resonate very heavily with you. (Also though, why are you here? You kinda sound like a stick in the mud.)

So wait, why should you Watch This Film?

                Joaquin Phoenix gives a solid performance as the awkward uncle learning how to connect with his nephew and also working to reconnect with his sister after a year with no communication. His struggles and triumphs as a parental figure are portrayed well by Phoenix who genuinely seems to enjoy the company of his young counterpart and the other children that Johnny interacts with through his interviews. We follow Phoenix as Johnny learning to work through proper expressions of feelings and how to share those with a child; it’s a fascinating character study. Woody Norman as Jesse is the true star of the film though. His portrayal of this implicitly neurodivergent 9-year-old is strong and curious and wise and innocent and everything that the filmmakers asked him to be. On top of that, he is also British and does a very solid American accent throughout the film. His performance across from such a powerhouse as Phoenix could easily disappear but instead shines as he holds his own and gives the film its much-needed heart. Norman’s performance even garnered him a BAFTA nomination for Best Supporting Actor; that kid was working!

                The way the story is crafted, switching between interviews of urban children, voiceovers from Johnny, and narrative following Johnny’s and Jesse’s escapades, helps the themes of the film carry throughout – namely, the importance of being funny when you can and looking toward the future. The interviews of the different children are authentic and show the depth of the ways that children are able to think and engage with the world around them and how much they have to teach those of us who are older. Such depth and knowledge is reflected in the interactions between Johnny and Jesse, creating a juxtaposition of theory and practice that draws the viewer in. By the end of the film, you feel that you have grown along with Johnny and are rooting for the family ties that have been strengthened by his time with Jesse. It is very wholesome and encouraging.

                Strong acting, well-shot cinematography, and a powerful story are the makings of a good film. Together in C’mon C’mon we see them coalesce into a Great Film, one that is certainly worth watching again and again. One that moves you, grows you, and encourages you as you watch.