Lars and the Real Girl
Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) | Release Date: October 12, 2007
7.9
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 261 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
219
Mixed:
18
Negative:
24
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User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
10
CarolGDec 30, 2008
I absolutely loved this heartwarming tale about a community coming to support one of its own. I recommended this film to all of my friends and they loved it too. I thought it should have gotten best picture in 2007.
3 of 3 users found this helpful
9
PGApr 10, 2008
it's really good... better than you'd think. great ideas, beautifully shot and some of the best acting you'll see in something with a little comedy in it. enjoy it.
2 of 2 users found this helpful
10
The3AcademySinsJan 1, 2019
I have to be honest, Lars and the Real Girl caught me completely off guard. Ryan Gosling gives the best performance in his career in a film about love, community, healing, and the most unique coming of age story I have ever borne witness too.I have to be honest, Lars and the Real Girl caught me completely off guard. Ryan Gosling gives the best performance in his career in a film about love, community, healing, and the most unique coming of age story I have ever borne witness too. Great cinematography, direction, sound design, and an unbelievably good script will help you buy into the movie in a way few movies will bother to do. This is a lowkey classic, and serious movie fans need to watch this heartwarming tale.… Expand
2 of 2 users found this helpful20
All this user's reviews
8
ChrisCApr 30, 2008
Very odd, yet utterly compelling film - apparently the part of Bianca was originally written for Paris Hilton, but her acting wasn't quite up to scratch.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
HughieOct 16, 2007
Sweet and smart and very well cast. Paul Schneider, Emily Mortimer and Patricia Clarkson all just wonderful, as is Ryan Gosling. VV gets it wrong again.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
CarstenS.Apr 8, 2008
This is an amazing movie. Ryan Gosling performance is extra-ordinary. The sweetness and openness of the movies character creates a warm heart-felt surrounding where the story blossoms. In the last third of the movie the pace is a little too This is an amazing movie. Ryan Gosling performance is extra-ordinary. The sweetness and openness of the movies character creates a warm heart-felt surrounding where the story blossoms. In the last third of the movie the pace is a little too slow but still one of the best 'romantic' movies I have seen.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
shareecMay 29, 2008
I absolutely loved this film. I found myself falling in love with the beauty and support of the entire community in order to help Lars rise above his emotional baggage. In the real world, I think we all could learn something from them.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
LindaL.May 7, 2008
A film with unusual sweetness and quirky charm, with excellent acting all around. Yeah, there's an air of fable about it; you have to go with the flow. It occurred to me later that these not-quite-believable people might possibly A film with unusual sweetness and quirky charm, with excellent acting all around. Yeah, there's an air of fable about it; you have to go with the flow. It occurred to me later that these not-quite-believable people might possibly populate the odd little town of St. Olaf, which Rose of "Golden Girls" was always telling quirky stories about.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
MarianneB.Oct 15, 2007
Lovely movie. Laughed. Cried. Satisfied. Ryan Gosling was spectacular.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
LiamNov 9, 2007
That this film works so beautifully is a measure of its grasp on deeper truths. A lovely parable. The rare negative reviews are from those who are terrified that their own most tender and real feelings will be laughed at.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
MarleneS.Dec 2, 2007
One of the most original movies I've seen in a long, long time. I laughed my head off and was deeply touched all at the same time. What I sweet story. I was never bored for a second.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
TiffanyK.Apr 18, 2008
this is an awesome movie. it is cute, funny, sad and moreover a clean cut flick that will keep you in interest from start to finish. you never know what to expect next. it's a must see.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
8
JayH.Apr 6, 2008
Wonderfully offbeat. Excellent performances from everyone, especially Ryan Gosling and Patricia Clarkson. The writing is excellent, and the characters are very rich and well developed. Creatively directed. It does go over the top at times, Wonderfully offbeat. Excellent performances from everyone, especially Ryan Gosling and Patricia Clarkson. The writing is excellent, and the characters are very rich and well developed. Creatively directed. It does go over the top at times, but it's quite worth while.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
JayP.May 23, 2008
Thoughly enjoyed. It was funny yet poignant without being sickenly mawkish. A Canadian gem.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
TomF.May 3, 2008
Excellent and thoughtful movie. Ryan plays his part with excellence and the rest of the cast is great too. If you can get past the fake girl you might learn something about the introverts in your life.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
AndersonMay 5, 2008
One of the most thoroughly engaging films I have seen in a long time. One of those films that stays with you. Even a learning experience in parts - and that is unusual!
1 of 1 users found this helpful
10
LizWMay 9, 2008
This is one of the sweetest, funniest movies I've ever seen.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
LinkerNov 10, 2007
I loved this movie. I was laughing and crying through most of it, and I almost never do that. It was sweet, wacky, hilarious, and touching. If you let yourself get into it, and enjoy the kindness and the emotions portrayed in the film, it I loved this movie. I was laughing and crying through most of it, and I almost never do that. It was sweet, wacky, hilarious, and touching. If you let yourself get into it, and enjoy the kindness and the emotions portrayed in the film, it can be a wonderful experience.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
GeorgeMOct 15, 2007
Lars and the Real Surprise - This is real story telling, a fable if you like, that stands a perverted premise on its head. As true a vision of life in a small, northern town as I have seen in years.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
PaulL.Dec 16, 2007
A completely disarming film that you think is going to be a one-note, one joke film that is instead a very sincere, sweet, touching movie.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
JoshBDec 9, 2007
The premise is indeed strange, but this is one of the best movies of the year.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
9
MichelleMDec 18, 2007
I thought it was extremely thought-provoking, wonderfully strange, and ultimately redemptive.
1 of 1 users found this helpful
8
SpangleApr 4, 2016
Lars and the Real Girl is a truly interesting and compelling film that offers an entirely painful and authentic look at mental illness. Even better, it never truly mocks its protagonist and chooses to instead force the audience to feelLars and the Real Girl is a truly interesting and compelling film that offers an entirely painful and authentic look at mental illness. Even better, it never truly mocks its protagonist and chooses to instead force the audience to feel sympathy and embrace him for who he truly is. Ryan Gosling gives a fantastic performance in the lead role as the disconnected and certainly ill Lars. Emily Mortimer and Paul Schneider are also both very good here in their roles. The film's writing feels incredibly real and never exploitative and honestly rips your heart out as frequently as it makes you feel physical pain with how awkward and sad some of the scenes are. The film is very well-written with all of the characters quite well fleshed out and very, again, authentic. Everybody feels real and nobody feels like some character written for a film. Instead, they feel like real people with real problems. Overall, Lars and the Real Girl is a very good film with a lot of heart that will certainly touch yours.… Expand
1 of 1 users found this helpful10
All this user's reviews
1
BillTJ.Nov 8, 2007
One of the worst films I've ever sat through. It was ugly t olook at - the situations implausibility not so much the problem as was the abvsolutely mawkish and easy solutions the town and family found to resolve their feelings about One of the worst films I've ever sat through. It was ugly t olook at - the situations implausibility not so much the problem as was the abvsolutely mawkish and easy solutions the town and family found to resolve their feelings about Lars' experience. Another absolutely phony movie that didn't have the guts to go for something real and in all likelihood a lot darker ie real than what they sheepishly settled on.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
2
MikeD.Apr 28, 2008
This movie was sooo boring! I had high expectations given the glowing reviews and the premise seemed interesting but it just wasn't. Basically, this desperate lonely loser gets a sex doll and has a relationship with it meanwhile This movie was sooo boring! I had high expectations given the glowing reviews and the premise seemed interesting but it just wasn't. Basically, this desperate lonely loser gets a sex doll and has a relationship with it meanwhile everyone around him feels compelled to play along. The overall tone of this film is somewhere between depressing and gloomy. I couldn't send this one back to Netflix fast enough.… Expand
1 of 2 users found this helpful
5
JayW.Nov 11, 2007
Beautifully acted film with a ridiculous premise. It would have been interesting to see at least ONE citizen of this impossibly convivial town openly challenge the delusion. Really, wishing a plastic playmate dead is NOT a symptom of Beautifully acted film with a ridiculous premise. It would have been interesting to see at least ONE citizen of this impossibly convivial town openly challenge the delusion. Really, wishing a plastic playmate dead is NOT a symptom of recovery, and it does NOT bode well for his prospects with a flesh-and-blood woman who can't be so easily dismissed. If you can stomach a comedy about mental illness, this one's for you!… Expand
1 of 3 users found this helpful
0
OlivierI.Mar 22, 2008
This review is therapy after what must be one of the worst film experiences I've ever had. It was so bad, I can't understand how anyone can fall for this kind of tripe. Honestly, the only way I could review this film is with an This review is therapy after what must be one of the worst film experiences I've ever had. It was so bad, I can't understand how anyone can fall for this kind of tripe. Honestly, the only way I could review this film is with an audio file, microphone and a can of hormel chili.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful
1
JacksonF.May 5, 2008
Absolutely horrid. There is no way on this green earth that a small town, or larger one for that matter would support someone's delusions. Secondly, he seemed to recover rather quickly after having a 'Real' social outing; the Absolutely horrid. There is no way on this green earth that a small town, or larger one for that matter would support someone's delusions. Secondly, he seemed to recover rather quickly after having a 'Real' social outing; the bowling episode. Those two points make this depressing movie unrealistic. I guarantee I could have made a better flick, having no background whatsoever in film. I give 1 point for the doll having nice cans.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful
0
frankyfeatherstoofaMay 7, 2008
Cloying and precious life time channel garbage. so unrealistic and cowardly that it makes the relationship with the doll chaste. unrealistic people, dialog, and portrayal of mental illness. takes a premise that has potential and just takes Cloying and precious life time channel garbage. so unrealistic and cowardly that it makes the relationship with the doll chaste. unrealistic people, dialog, and portrayal of mental illness. takes a premise that has potential and just takes the stupid way and safe feel good way out. its predictable and worst of all boring. truly monotonous when you watch scenes that are like something a child would write.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful
3
ElliottMOct 11, 2007
Saw it at the Boston Film Festival -- didn't laugh once. The addition of a blow-up doll doesn't make this premise feel any less trite, ridiculous, or annoying.
0 of 2 users found this helpful
0
MeeC.Mar 22, 2008
Worst movie I've ever seen! I'm quite disgusted by Ryan Gosling whom I thought was a pretty promising young actor.
0 of 3 users found this helpful
8
ScottS.Dec 23, 2007
Strange and beautiful, if a tad Hallmark. Nonetheless, Gosling is great and Bianca, played by a Real Doll, is certainly a better actress than Keira Knightley and Scarlett Johansson.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
0
PatrickR.Apr 23, 2008
I'd have to agree with Oliver L. for the most part. The movie was was completely unrealistic. It just goes through the formula without taking risks. A risky move would have made Lars actually be the type of person that would resort to I'd have to agree with Oliver L. for the most part. The movie was was completely unrealistic. It just goes through the formula without taking risks. A risky move would have made Lars actually be the type of person that would resort to getting a real doll; even weirder in other words. And they just had to find a good looking actor to play Lars that just happened to be the love interest of a female. Lar's friends and family would have ignored the problem because he would really just be a lost hope. It would have been a good movie if Lars was about to kill himself and instead settled for a real doll even though he knew completely how pathetic that was. Just imagine the plot of the movie with the intent of trying to impress the masses and thats what it was. If you liked it you were fooled! Watch the movie as if you've never lived a day in your life and you'll love it.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful
4
ScraperFeb 19, 2018
I was confused most of the way through on how to take it in. Lars' dummy sets up the premise as humorous but then steps deeper and deeper into the concepts of loss and the sickness that can occur from it. It was finally apparent that II was confused most of the way through on how to take it in. Lars' dummy sets up the premise as humorous but then steps deeper and deeper into the concepts of loss and the sickness that can occur from it. It was finally apparent that I shouldn't be chuckling. Much like the characters in the film, I tried to play along and take it seriously. It just wasn't for me. Gosling's character begs for sympathy as he plays ridiculously like Carell's 40 year old virgin. I think this movie had identity problems. There would be a silly scene featuring the doll and then suddenly hit the brakes with a tearful, neurotic trip to the psychologist's office. My brain was getting whiplash.… Expand
0 of 2 users found this helpful02
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3
ciarocks4Mar 4, 2017
I don't really understand whats so great about the movie. I mean the town as a whole coming and supporting a guys who is dellusional is beautiful. However there are other ways to depict it. Ryan Gosling falls in love with a sex doll and thenI don't really understand whats so great about the movie. I mean the town as a whole coming and supporting a guys who is dellusional is beautiful. However there are other ways to depict it. Ryan Gosling falls in love with a sex doll and then the doll dies and his dillusion breaks gradually.I Know its stupid, "no this was not worth it"… Expand
0 of 1 users found this helpful01
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10
MaryNov 2, 2007
Critics underrated this one. A real gem. A great exercise in suspension of disbelief.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JoeZOct 27, 2007
Delightful... WOW an entertaining film for adults that isn't stupid, predicable, cliche-ridden or poorly written and directed (ie FEAST FOR LOVE and DAN IN REAL LIFE )... not a false note by any actor in the entire film -- Gosling is Delightful... WOW an entertaining film for adults that isn't stupid, predicable, cliche-ridden or poorly written and directed (ie FEAST FOR LOVE and DAN IN REAL LIFE )... not a false note by any actor in the entire film -- Gosling is TERRIFIC! Who would have thought with a plotline like that? WONDERFUL!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
ChadS.Oct 27, 2007
If you think long and hard about the final act, "Lars and the Real Girl" is not the feel-good movie it purports to be. How many husbands, how many boyfriends had this same fantasy when their eyes wander towards an upgrade? "Bianca" is If you think long and hard about the final act, "Lars and the Real Girl" is not the feel-good movie it purports to be. How many husbands, how many boyfriends had this same fantasy when their eyes wander towards an upgrade? "Bianca" is paralyzed. Thankfully, the film spares us the spectacle of animate/inanimate object sex. What if Lars(Ryan Gosling) wants a partner who can move? What if Lars is like the Edward Norton character in "Primal Fear"? The film seems largely unaware that a darker interpretation can be laid upon Lars' actions. Still, this deadpan comedy can be uproariously funny. It should've stayed in this register rather than tug on the heartstrings, although some strings do get tugged. "Lars and the Real Girl" is "River's Edge" meets "Opal Dream". Like the adaptation of "Pobby and Dingan"(the Ben Rice novel on which "Opal Dream" was based), the townsfolk participate in the delusional person's fantasy life. But in "Opal Dream", the cracked person is a young girl. Sure, we buy it. But a 37-year-old man? I don't know. We believe in Karin's devotion(Emily Mortimer) towards her brother-in-law, however.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
RogerS.Nov 2, 2007
A very upbeat movie. It makes me think about holding a stuffed animal or playing with dolls. When our imagination takes over the whole world and I got into this feel good movie. Makes you feel good. A few moments it was not real but then A very upbeat movie. It makes me think about holding a stuffed animal or playing with dolls. When our imagination takes over the whole world and I got into this feel good movie. Makes you feel good. A few moments it was not real but then again that was the point. It's not real. You'll get it.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
BillyS.Nov 3, 2007
I'll keep this short and simple, Lars and the Real Girl is a cinematic MIRACLE!!!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
waynh.Oct 28, 2007
Warms my heart.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
NickA.Oct 30, 2007
'Lars' is a wonderful, tidy little gem that melts hearts and lights glee with its tender story and gentle, kindhearted protagonist. In his rookie year as a director, Craig Gillespie (also of this year
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
EssiS.Apr 10, 2009
Lars and the Real Girl has an amazing script and cast. Ryan Gosling is slowly but surely becoming one of my favorite actors.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
TuckerM.Nov 1, 2007
I adored this film, and was blown away by the degree to which it takes an utterly outlandish premise and spins it into gold. No, it's not realistic, and yes, it's a fairy tale. But to me, it represents real humanity at its best. I adored this film, and was blown away by the degree to which it takes an utterly outlandish premise and spins it into gold. No, it's not realistic, and yes, it's a fairy tale. But to me, it represents real humanity at its best. And the understated power of the uniformly superb acting (particularly from Patricia Clarkson) is simply not to be missed. Bravo, Craig Gillespie, Ryan Gosling, Emily Mortimer, Paul Schneider and Nancy Oliver; you broke my heart, then made it whole again.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
KeithOct 19, 2007
I've been surprised by some of the negative reviews. I consider myself to be a skeptical movie lover, and even I find some of these reviews to just be plain snarky and off the mark. Yes, maybe the small town depicted here is idyllic. I've been surprised by some of the negative reviews. I consider myself to be a skeptical movie lover, and even I find some of these reviews to just be plain snarky and off the mark. Yes, maybe the small town depicted here is idyllic. Maybe the conceit is somewhat hard to buy. If you can accept a world of wizards and hobbits, why not a town where people respond to Lars with kindness and acceptance? The movie, I think, exists as a sort of fable about how fragile we are and how kindness and love can heal. Frankly, I'm not sure I'd want to know someone who can see this movie and not respond to it positively. What's next? It's a Wonderful Life is bunk, manipulative, and schmaltzy because it's about an angel? Come on. Lighten up. I found the movie very satisfying with performances that registered as utterly authentic and sincere. The screenwriters and director do a wonderful job of maintaining a consistent tone that never tilts too far to mockery or quirkiness. Ultimately, it's Gosling's triumph. The movie succeeds largely because we, like the townspeople, love him. That Gosling also makes us laugh without seeming to try to do so is a wonder. Lovely, irresistible, touching.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
trudyh.Oct 21, 2007
Not to be missed.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MikeM.Oct 24, 2007
Wonderful, genuine, moving performances. The most unexpectedly moving film I've seen this year. Gosling is amazing. I wonder whether someone who can not enjoy this movie actually possesses a soul.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MichaelL.Oct 27, 2007
I loved this film. Unlike some "over-inlflated" critics,drunk on their own self-importance, it's simple and sweet. How refreshing to see a movie where people are kind to each other, instead of awash in irony. Don't know about you, I loved this film. Unlike some "over-inlflated" critics,drunk on their own self-importance, it's simple and sweet. How refreshing to see a movie where people are kind to each other, instead of awash in irony. Don't know about you, but I'm sick to death of irony. Gosling is breathtaking--sweet, damaged, and so real. The supporting cast is uniformly excellent--particularly Patricia Clarkson, as a psychologist/MD who doesn't need to hit us over the head with pop psychology. "Lars" respects its audience as much as his town respects Lars.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
LH.Oct 29, 2007
Unusual movie that may turn you off at first but should leave you delighted and choked up by conclusion. Cast is terrific. Who is "the real girl"?
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
RobbyT.Apr 20, 2008
Lars is unique but ultimately too corny and boring to have the desired effect. Gosling once again vanishes into the character. Maybe worth a rental.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
CraigA.Aug 10, 2008
Just incredible. I am in awe of Ryan Gosling's acting abilities.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DianeM.Nov 5, 2007
I have seen this movie three times now. The cast is flawless, as is the writing. A movie about healing that includes God, family, community, and kindness. A breath of fresh air in a dismal movie year!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
CharlieJ.Oct 17, 2007
Very cute, adorable w/o being pandering, typical or trite. Gosling's comedic & tragic timing is nearly perfect. He can create a scene in one breath that just tickles you then makes you feel sadder than you've ever felt in your Very cute, adorable w/o being pandering, typical or trite. Gosling's comedic & tragic timing is nearly perfect. He can create a scene in one breath that just tickles you then makes you feel sadder than you've ever felt in your life...for just a second though so don't freak out. Good movie...very sweet...it's nice to have a happy film.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MichelleCOct 28, 2007
Only Ryan Gosling could keep the emotional element in this film from becoming comical. He is brilliant.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
RoryP.Oct 29, 2008
Realism and character detail are undermined by the central conceit (that a whole town would be willing to play along with such an odd delusion.) There loving efforts to include Lars simply become unbelievable after a certain point, or at Realism and character detail are undermined by the central conceit (that a whole town would be willing to play along with such an odd delusion.) There loving efforts to include Lars simply become unbelievable after a certain point, or at least, the progression of their efforts are not made believable enough for this viewer. The plot is also quite predictable. Saying that there are some nice performances (Emily Mortimer is a stand out) and the dialogue is nicely judged. The production values are also quite good. Not a bad film by any means, just weighed down by noticeable flaws.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
AlexSAug 9, 2011
Gosling once again proves that he's one of the greatest actors of his generation.He's equally subtle and charming in this funny,touching and rewarding movie.It's undoubtedly a risky premise and yet it never fails to move and amuse it'sGosling once again proves that he's one of the greatest actors of his generation.He's equally subtle and charming in this funny,touching and rewarding movie.It's undoubtedly a risky premise and yet it never fails to move and amuse it's audience.It's a portrait of a quiet and lonely man that finds happiness in a blow-up doll.The script is very strong and the characters are completely believable.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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4
AkutoJan 24, 2013
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. All in all, the cast's execution of this thin and tenuous plot was excellent. That is the sole reason I stayed for the whole ride, and the reason I feel a negative score would be unjustified. Far too many scenes were utterly implausible, i.e. the willingness of a paramedic team to play along with a man's self-willed delusion that his plastic ball-and-chain was dying to free him of commitment. Surely, the dispatched EMTs would be furious to find their resources thinned by a case of make-believe illness, but instead they rush the doll to the hospital and provide her with a room.

Through the entire run, there was one passing attempt to go against Lars' delusion, early in the film. It was of no consequence. In the end, an elaborate funeral service packed with attendees and ending in the burial of a plastic girl was somehow deemed plausible, and Lars showed no signs of realization of his delusions. He simply moved on as quickly as possible to develop a relationship with the flesh and blood girl he willed his imaginary girlfriend to death in favor of. Netflix called this film a comedy, but I have to disagree. Though some humor found its way in, especially toward the beginning, the film took it upon itself to venture too far into psychological and heartfelt territory as a means of legitimizing the concept of Lars' mental illness, a means that was less than effective.… Expand
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8
EleniJun 5, 2012
From a brief summary of the film â
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10
AngelikiCoconiJun 9, 2012
From a brief summary of the film â
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10
beingryanjudeAug 24, 2014
By its end, one of the most satisfying films ever made. Lars and the Real Girl is certainly a modern oddity - with feelings we all possess and share. Ryan Gosling vividly portrays a character which we grow to love and care for deeply, despiteBy its end, one of the most satisfying films ever made. Lars and the Real Girl is certainly a modern oddity - with feelings we all possess and share. Ryan Gosling vividly portrays a character which we grow to love and care for deeply, despite any peculiarity. It's blasphemy to not have given Gosling that Oscar nomination.… Expand
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10
rachiebabieApr 1, 2014
Heart touching. Sweet. Uplifting. Ryan Gosling gives an incredible performance as Lars, an emotionally stunted man who deep down is dying to connect with the people around him. I hardly watch movies twice, but I've seen this one more than 5X,Heart touching. Sweet. Uplifting. Ryan Gosling gives an incredible performance as Lars, an emotionally stunted man who deep down is dying to connect with the people around him. I hardly watch movies twice, but I've seen this one more than 5X, and catch myself smiling through out. It's sheer perfection.… Expand
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8
Compi24Sep 10, 2015
Delicately straddling the line between quirky comedy and awkward drama, "Lars And The Real Girl" acts as a sufficient vehicle for Ryan Gosling's superior creative talents and Craig Gillespie's sure-handed directorial style.
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9
SummersausageJan 8, 2013
At first I saw a commercial for this that looked like a new fashioned comedy. It could not be farther from that. Ryan Gosling proves why everybody likes him. When the therapist puts her hands on him I couldn't even handle it.
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9
RLB1024Jan 5, 2014
Quirky story about how sometimes we need a little "make-believe" to help ease us into what can be a scary real-world. Very likable characters and made you feel good about humanity.
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7
Meth-dudeAug 8, 2016
The movie was charming, funny, sad and entertaining all at once. It was well acted, interesting and original. Even though the last 5 minutes were the most disappointing thing in the movie and it was not always very realistic, it was still aThe movie was charming, funny, sad and entertaining all at once. It was well acted, interesting and original. Even though the last 5 minutes were the most disappointing thing in the movie and it was not always very realistic, it was still a good movie.… Expand
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8
manicsalchowDec 6, 2014
An emotional roller coaster into the world of a "special" person. Beautifully weird. Exceptionally strong. As it cultivates hope and miracle to happen throughout the film.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
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8
FlickLoverMay 31, 2015
Lars and the Real Girl: "The search for true love begins outside the box." A very good movie that allowed me to see "outside the box" as I watched it. I was moved as I watched a community help with the healing of one of their number. ThisLars and the Real Girl: "The search for true love begins outside the box." A very good movie that allowed me to see "outside the box" as I watched it. I was moved as I watched a community help with the healing of one of their number. This film was a refreshingly unorthodox view of showing and finding love.… Expand
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7
CinemaphileJul 29, 2016
Lars and the Real Girl is a film that could easily degenerate into a coarse joke because of its seemingly titillating premise. However, screenwriter Nancy Oliver explores the psychology of an introverted man and the small Wisconsin communityLars and the Real Girl is a film that could easily degenerate into a coarse joke because of its seemingly titillating premise. However, screenwriter Nancy Oliver explores the psychology of an introverted man and the small Wisconsin community which embraces his idiosyncratic denial instead of going for cheap laughs. Ryan Gosling gives Lars an innocence and decency which allow the audience to embrace Lars' behavioral disorder as his family and friends do.
Worth your time, top of the Netflix queue.… Expand
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7
CasuallyJan 17, 2017
Against all odds Lars and the Real Girl slowly earns your attention and trust as Bianca earns hers in the community. Endearing to the end it dodges obvious plot lines and cheap laughs and instead portrays strong morals. Maybe a little slow inAgainst all odds Lars and the Real Girl slowly earns your attention and trust as Bianca earns hers in the community. Endearing to the end it dodges obvious plot lines and cheap laughs and instead portrays strong morals. Maybe a little slow in places but altogether necessary to tell the story. An outstanding one man performance from Ryan Gosling.… Expand
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6
AkumaJackMar 12, 2018
Gosling is a great actor and it shows in this film. THe plot is also rather intriguing. It all focus around Lars (Gosling) getting a lovedoll as a girlfriend. It is nice but not brilliant.
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8
amheretojudgeJun 14, 2018
an authentic and heartbreaking relationship..

Lars And The Real Girl There have been quite a few features like such, that pitched similar concept to it and has touched viewer's heart through their non-human but equally up beating charactersan authentic and heartbreaking relationship..

Lars And The Real Girl

There have been quite a few features like such, that pitched similar concept to it and has touched viewer's heart through their non-human but equally up beating characters and this is one of them. The writing is gripping if not smart, keeping the audience engaged through its pragmatic characters that is fueled by the emotions running among them on screen and the makers being aware of it pampers the audience throughout the course of it. It is short on technical terms like sound department but is immensely pleasing on the way it is shot; the camera work is stunning, and so is costume design. Nancy Oliver's emotionally driven script is not only supported but celebrated by Craig Gillespie; the director, whose brilliant execution skills up the ante of the game. Ryan Gosling is the real game changer of the feature as it pulsates his skills on a much larger scale and flaunts it shamelessly and sweeps away most of the charm where he is supported decently by a hungry cast (Emily Mortimer and Paul Schneider) whose work is appreciative in here. Lars And The Real Girl is an authentic and heartbreaking relationship of humans surviving in a society where the softer and sweeter aspects of it is explored and encouraged in here.… Expand
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3
FilipeNetoMay 9, 2021
I confess that I don't really know what to think about this film. I recognize the originality of the theme, but if the idea was to do comedy, it failed me. Furthermore, I also got the feeling that the film enters too often in a kind ofI confess that I don't really know what to think about this film. I recognize the originality of the theme, but if the idea was to do comedy, it failed me. Furthermore, I also got the feeling that the film enters too often in a kind of "twilight zone" where everyone, more or less consciously and deliberately, plays the fool - even the priest!

The film's script focuses on Lars, an incredibly shy man, who is not even able to maintain a normal relationship with his own family and isolates himself as much as possible. Suddenly, he decides to introduce a new girlfriend to everyone, but she is simply a very realistic plastic erotic doll. From here, and to my surprise, everyone decides to cooperate with this man's delusion and treat the doll as if he were a real person.

For me, the film didn't work. I am not able to give the script any credibility and the story told is simply too far-fetched and improbable for me to swallow it. If the idea was to make a satire, I did not understand what was at stake. If the idea was to do comedy, it wasn't funny at all. Personally, I found it even a little offensive, as the film tries to make you laugh at the expense of a man who is so shy that he urgently needs therapy or psychological counseling. And, now that I mention it, I also don't understand all the pressure from society to push an individual into dating or marriage. Sometimes you are happier as a single person.

Although I did not like this film, and raised serious questions about the script, I recognize the value and commitment of its cast, particularly Ryan Gosling. The actor is superb, and he works in depth, in an extremely rich character and with a very interesting psychology, which the actor knew how to explore and develop wonderfully. Ultimately, Gosling's excellent performance not only greatly redeems the film but ends up being the real reason to see it! The film also features Paul Schneider, Kelli Garner and Emily Mortimer in the supporting roles, but it's Gosling that shines.

Technically, the film seems to be quite neutral, within the regular standards of the industry: cinematography and sets do not bring anything original but fulfill their role quite well; the costumes, and particularly Gosling's, were quite good and harmonized with the environment and the theme (I especially liked the costumes used at the funeral). I don't think the film had a very big budget, but the production was able to make good use of it.… Expand
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7
DawdlingPoetNov 24, 2021
This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is a fairly quirky movie, which I quite enjoyed. I thought that it was quite touching at points and I was quite intrigued to see how the movie would play out. You would be mistaken for thinking that its perhaps a bit of an obvious movie, that its a tale of a shy man who keeps to himself and whos relatives come to save the day and 'thats that' sort of thing but it isn't really like that. I thought that it was quite sweet to watch how the 'townsfolk' reacted to the new 'citizen' Bianca, how the doctor dealt with Lars and his delusions, seemingly 'treating' Bianca while really trying to evaluate Lars. Lars himself is quite a curious character and I did feel quite sorry for him, I have to say I have a good bit of experience when it comes to being someone who prefers to keep to themselves, im not one for going to big parties or being out with other people other than my family, very much at all and its sad to see how people judge him, although of course it is true to say that its not particularly healthy to be that way and when Bianca comes along, yes, if I were his sister I'd be alarmed too!
There are some fairly surreal scenes, which again should be expected given the story, where 'Bianca' is shown in the neighbourhood, accompanying Lars to certain places and events, such as attending a church service with him and even getting 'her' blood pressure taken. The way the story goes with Lars at first being blissfully in love and then slowly things going downhill for poor Bianca, I almost did start to feel sorry for her, even if she is just an inanimate blow up doll! but really for me it was the reaction of the community to this doll, how they acted around Lars and Bianca that I particularly liked and found quite fascinating. I can't imagine the same being the case around here and again it added a fair degree of surrealism to the movie but I feel that there is, somehow, a positive message in there somehow, that ok here you have who must be quite a disillusioned man who chooses to let his imagination, I suppose, run a bit and has built up these delusions as the doctor calls it but as it is, it doesn't hurt anyone and in having 'Bianca' it makes him that bit more confident to attend things that he wouldn't have had he really believed he was on his own, such as attending a local party. In the movie you also have two opposing views, the general acceptance of Bianca by the local community against Lars' brother Gus, who clearly doesn't accept 'her' and to start with even suggests sectioning poor Lars. However, as hesitant and disapproving as he is at the start, I feel that towards the end things change a bit and I also thought it was quite nice to see how Gus' wife Karin reacted too, her being the one that tried to get Lars to come over and see them more.

I feel that this is in one way quite a sad and touching movie but its also somewhat uplifting and I suppose it does have somethng of a positive message, its certainly something different anyway, I thought that it was quite well thought out as far as the story goes, what happens as Lars 'relationship' with Bianca continues and what the outcome eventually is, it was quite fascinating and I thought that Ryan Gosling gave a good performance portraying this disillusioned man who seems to really see somebody in this doll.
Of course this isn't a movie for everyone but I thought that the story was interesting enough, it didn't drone on forever and the performances were again quite solid, the interaction between Lars and his brother Gus and his sister in law Karin and the community in general being quite interesting, so it kept me watching until the end and I also liked how the movie ended, I thought it was quite fitting, thats all I'll say there for fear of giving too much away.

I do think some people may find it bland, if your very outgoing then you may well not relate to Lars and so find it just a bit too weird and a bit too slow, pace-wise, also it isn't exactly laugh out loud funny, its more subtle and more of a quirky, touching movie than a comedy movie as such but it is the sort of movie that I quite enjoy from time to time, so it suited me well, for me it'd be more of a 5 star movie but I think there are people who won't really 'get it' or enjoy it that much, so I decided to go with a 4 star rating, also im not sure if it is a movie that I would watch more than once, im not sure.

Yes I would. Like I say, its not a movie everyone will enjoy, its not laugh out loud hilarious, its not full of action, its not really sexual or anything like that but its an intriguing 'human' story, if you know what I mean, that I found quite touching and fascinating too in a sense. I found the story interesting and the performances are fine too, so I would recommend it.… Expand
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9
geewahJan 15, 2021
I never thought I would say this about a movie where one of it's stars is a sex doll, but this is a touching, beautiful and funny movie.
One of 2007's best movies.
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7
JJ2FAS4UAug 11, 2022
----------------------------------6.9/10-----------------------------------
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6
LightsAndBulbsSep 18, 2022
"Lars and the Real Girl" is well-written, well-shot, well-acted, but not quite special enough to rise beyond being okay. This sort of plot is hardly new, and while I think this film does a decent job executing and rehashing it, it's hardly a"Lars and the Real Girl" is well-written, well-shot, well-acted, but not quite special enough to rise beyond being okay. This sort of plot is hardly new, and while I think this film does a decent job executing and rehashing it, it's hardly a movie that sticks with me, or feels all too special. It hits every box you expect it to, and ends how one would expect. None of that is meant to discredit this movie's merits however, as there are plenty of films out there that aim for a similar storyline and execute it far worse. Ryan Gosling's performance alone is enough to elevate this movie above others in the same vein, and to the film's credit, its attempts at conveying emotion were all pulled off exceptionally. It's a bit of a crowd pleaser, but hey, there are far worse things one can be.
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Best Performance: Ryan Gosling… Expand
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9
frightopiaFeb 25, 2023
A very surprisingly heartfelt film. I did not know what to expect, but it was truly amazing.
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