Little Miss Sunshine

9

MahauM.Aug 21, 2006

An incredible film... hilarious, touching, and at times gut-wrenchingly sad. If you are expecting a hollywood ending, you will be disappointed, but it's the perfect indie film.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

DanaGAug 22, 2006

Loved every moment of it. I knew in the first 10 mins that this one would be a keeper.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

JohnBartonAug 28, 2006

When is the last time you sat thru a movie where the entire audience laughed almost continously and applauded loudly at the end. That's what happened in LMS, a really fun, wholly entertaining
and uplifting movie. Anyone whoWhen is the last time you sat thru a movie where the entire audience laughed almost continously and applauded loudly at the end. That's what happened in LMS, a really fun, wholly entertaining
and uplifting movie. Anyone who doesn't love this film should quit going to movies. It's really good, and works on many different levels.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

GeorgeV.Aug 29, 2006

Unique and entertaining - I thought it was well done and very enjoyable. A welcome change from the usual "cookie cutter" and formulaic comedies that we are usually subjected to each summer. Those that gave it a low rating have missed the Unique and entertaining - I thought it was well done and very enjoyable. A welcome change from the usual "cookie cutter" and formulaic comedies that we are usually subjected to each summer. Those that gave it a low rating have missed the point entirely! Go see it!… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

CynS.Sep 11, 2006

Subversive and hilarious.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

RyanS.Sep 22, 2006

Saw it months ago at a screening and have been trying to convince people to see it ever since. It's rare that one might mention "Best Film of the Year" in the same breath as a comedy starring Steve Carell, but in this case, it's Saw it months ago at a screening and have been trying to convince people to see it ever since. It's rare that one might mention "Best Film of the Year" in the same breath as a comedy starring Steve Carell, but in this case, it's totally true. How I wish comedies received a fair shake from the Academy in March, but I doubt we'll see this wonderful movie get the Oscar love it deserves.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

ScottGoodwinSep 3, 2006

Alternately heart-wrenching and laugh-out-loud funny, this movie kicked ass on all levels. The cast was amazing, the writing cut to the quick and a solid movie. The only thing that kept it from getting higher marks were a couple of Alternately heart-wrenching and laugh-out-loud funny, this movie kicked ass on all levels. The cast was amazing, the writing cut to the quick and a solid movie. The only thing that kept it from getting higher marks were a couple of coincidences/contrivances that seemed overwritten--when Steve Carell's char. runs into an ex-lover at a gas station in mid-trip, then later when the door falls off the van. To the movie's credit, I was willing to overlook those flaws to keep up with the characters.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

JakeV.Sep 5, 2006

Absolutely great. Don't let the slow start fool you. A lot of great, funny bits and strong performances and a couple moving moments as well.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

TheConundrumSep 8, 2006

The funniest movie I've seen in a while, and perversely touching as well. It starts out slow, but by the time they reached the "beauty pageant" at the end, I nearly bust a gut laughing. Not for small children, but intelligent adults The funniest movie I've seen in a while, and perversely touching as well. It starts out slow, but by the time they reached the "beauty pageant" at the end, I nearly bust a gut laughing. Not for small children, but intelligent adults will richly appreciate it.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

JaredC.Dec 15, 2007

Michael Arndt's screenplay for the stellar comedy Little Miss Sunshine is tightly constructed, and full of the kinds of characters talented actors kill to portray a pudgy, bespectacled seven-year-old, Olive (Abigail Breslin), voices her Michael Arndt's screenplay for the stellar comedy Little Miss Sunshine is tightly constructed, and full of the kinds of characters talented actors kill to portray a pudgy, bespectacled seven-year-old, Olive (Abigail Breslin), voices her desire to take home the coveted Little Miss Sunshine crown at an upcoming beauty pageant, her wildly dysfunctional family sets out on an interstate road trip to ensure her a clear shot at realizing her dreams in former music video directorial team Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris' quirky feature debut, starring Greg Kinnear, Steve Carell, and Toni Collette. Despite early career success as an outspoken motivational speaker, family patriarch Richard (Kinnear) continues to cling to his "Refuse to Lose" philosophy, much to the chagrin of his increasingly annoyed spouse, Sheryl (Collette). Add into the mix a Nietzsche-reading teenage son (Paul Dano) who has taken a vow of silence until he finds his fate as a fighter pilot; a horny, heroin-happy grandfather (Alan Arkin) with a penchant for creative profanity; and a suicidal genius (Carell) and Proust scholar still reeling about losing both his male lover and his MacArthur Foundation genius grant -- and the stage is set for a road trip in which sanity is sure to take the back seat. All of the characters and themes are economically but patiently set up in a funny 20-minute dinner sequence that opens the movie. Throughout the film, characters perform what seem to be throwaway actions that actually pay off later in the film. The fact that first-time directors Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris know when to keep the story moving and when to slow down for the first-rate character stuff helps make it one of the great debuts of the year. However, it is the actors who make Little Miss Sunshine one of the best films of 2006. These characters, from the suicidal Proust scholar to the heroin-addicted grandfather to the silent, sullen teenager to the failed motivational speaker (a comedy concept worthy of an award in and of itself), could all be played so grandly that the film would collapse. However, everybody stays on the same page emotionally, making them seem like a real family and like real individuals. About a third of the way into Little Miss Sunshine, Steve Carell and Alan Arkin play a simple scene in which Arkin's character makes a frank request that gets a laugh from Carell's character. The scene is unusual because very rarely does anyone actually laugh onscreen in a comedy. Carell's laugh feels utterly genuine and entirely in character, making the conversation one of the moments that best exemplifies the humanism and the humor in the thoroughly entertaining Little Miss Sunshine.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

KEND.Jan 22, 2007

Very good little picture. Good acting, & direction.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

JimJan 22, 2007

Very good movie, not slapstick funny but the kind of funny that sticks with you.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

ThereseJan 31, 2007

Sometimes we just live our lives in our own little worlds and forget just how much diversity is out there. This film has captured a family that has its quirks and is different; but aren't we all? Beneath the challenges each family Sometimes we just live our lives in our own little worlds and forget just how much diversity is out there. This film has captured a family that has its quirks and is different; but aren't we all? Beneath the challenges each family member faces, remains strength, love, patience, guidance and acceptance--not a bad lot to have in life. Every family has its own, ah, uniqueness, and this is a family to be cherished for all it has to offer each other and those viewing the film. Great cast and wonderful acting--give in to it and you will enjoy not only the experience but perhaps appreciate your own family, warts and all, just a little bit more.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

SteveK.Feb 22, 2007

You can't just wait for a movie to "wow" you to appreciate it. LMS is a revelation through a family that is as dysfunctional as it gets but pulls it together enough to love each other when they need it most. It is funny and You can't just wait for a movie to "wow" you to appreciate it. LMS is a revelation through a family that is as dysfunctional as it gets but pulls it together enough to love each other when they need it most. It is funny and heartwarming, especially when you start with the worst and then you see the best. Out of Departed, Babel, and LMS, this movie is by far the most entertaining movie that leaves you with a smile on your face, not leaving the theater being depressed and feeling like the world is one big craphole (like Babel and the Departed do).… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

TimW.Feb 28, 2007

A movie about six nutty people caged within a dysfunctional family and a clapped-out van. I loved it. And if you liked Sideways then you might love it too.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

NickA.Jun 29, 2007

'Little Miss Sunshine' is the kind of movie that sticks with you long after it

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

TroelsJ.Oct 19, 2008

I mainly love this movie because of the ending. Besides the characters (and the kind of chilled, anticute atmosphere) it's actually pretty much like any other comedy/drama all the way through the movie. But in the end, it just changes - I mainly love this movie because of the ending. Besides the characters (and the kind of chilled, anticute atmosphere) it's actually pretty much like any other comedy/drama all the way through the movie. But in the end, it just changes - and instead of just being a fairly entertaining movie, it ends up having a great message. Greater than most messages in movies nowadays.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

MichaelM.Aug 8, 2008

Some people think they are good critics like Tania and especially Jasper below because they vomit their extended vocabulary on to the computer screen, but they're not. Simply because it is easy to determine a character's Some people think they are good critics like Tania and especially Jasper below because they vomit their extended vocabulary on to the computer screen, but they're not. Simply because it is easy to determine a character's personality or psychological state does not mean they are one dimensional or cliched. Acting, cinematography, music, direction in general is all great. Most normal people like this film.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

MargaretL.Feb 16, 2010

Abigail Breslin is pitch-perfect as the eternal optimist in a family that's almost completely messed up. Anyone could enjoy the film simply based on her performance.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

BitBurnDec 27, 2006

This movie was brilliant beyond my expectations! If you're tired of all the Hollywood crap such as (List too long) well you'll love this movie.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

ShaunM.Aug 19, 2006

An all-around excellent movie. Hilarious and inspiring.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

SusanS.Aug 21, 2006

This was an excellent time at the movies. It definitely had good timing anyway--the light-heartedness would have been lost on a serious winter-release crowd. Summer movie-goers are always more ready for simple plots, and that's what This was an excellent time at the movies. It definitely had good timing anyway--the light-heartedness would have been lost on a serious winter-release crowd. Summer movie-goers are always more ready for simple plots, and that's what this is. It's a road trip movie, simply; pretty predictable dysfunctional family bonding. But it's really, really, really funny. And contains some stupendous actors--when you've got Alan Arkin, you know you're going to have a good time. And Abigail Breslin is way too cute in those enormous glasses. I would see this in the theater, because I think some of the fun would be lost as a rental, in addition to some of the southwest cinematography.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

BillyS.Aug 25, 2006

Little Miss Sunshine is what going to the movies is all about! It's like taking a time-released sunshine pill when you buy the ticket that peaks in the last 15 minutes then stays with you all day. Everyone in the ensemble is perfectly Little Miss Sunshine is what going to the movies is all about! It's like taking a time-released sunshine pill when you buy the ticket that peaks in the last 15 minutes then stays with you all day. Everyone in the ensemble is perfectly cast and at the top of their game. Alan Arkin proves that old actors don't die, they don't even fade away, they become acting Gods! The story is beautifully written, like The Royal Tanenbaums on the road, at times touching, at times hilarious, but always real. The music is pitch perfect and keeps the movie flowing along with the beautiful cinematography. In a summer of over-hyped disappointing blockbusters we finally get a little shot of "Sunshine" to remind us of why we love movies. Bravo! Encore!… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

TonyZ.Sep 23, 2006

Really wonderful. I was weepy throughout, though this wasn't maudlin or sentimental. This film is filled with nice quiet touches, alternating with laugh-out-loud absurdity. A sweet, honest, brutal movie.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

BenB.Nov 30, 2007

While this movie does have flaws, they are not enough to compensate for the 7.4 this movie earns under User Score. This movie is dry, amusing, inane yet endearing, and just plain fun. I do not know a single person who disliked this film, and While this movie does have flaws, they are not enough to compensate for the 7.4 this movie earns under User Score. This movie is dry, amusing, inane yet endearing, and just plain fun. I do not know a single person who disliked this film, and the conclusion is genuinely funny, heartwarming, and moving. The main criticism users seem to have for this movie was that it was nominated while their favorite movies weren't. Please, if you like a movie, then comment on it as opposed to ranting about your (generally wrong) opinions up here. This movie is a rewarding experience, and well worth the price of either a DVD rental or a theater ticket. In the future, let's please leave the Oscar nominating up to the professionals.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

MichaelK.Jan 23, 2007

Looking at the people who gave this movie bad reviews, I think they wanted this movie to be a straight-forward comedy. But it's not. It's really saterical and tonge-in-cheek. People who dont find this movie funny are jus idiots who Looking at the people who gave this movie bad reviews, I think they wanted this movie to be a straight-forward comedy. But it's not. It's really saterical and tonge-in-cheek. People who dont find this movie funny are jus idiots who dont hav a high enuff IQ to get the jokes.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

AntonH.Jan 27, 2007

Watching Abigail Breslin act like an eight year old girl was terrific! The movie captured the joy of her innocence, and how it eventually brought a family who was traveling in different directions together. The cast had real chemistry, and Watching Abigail Breslin act like an eight year old girl was terrific! The movie captured the joy of her innocence, and how it eventually brought a family who was traveling in different directions together. The cast had real chemistry, and was really impressed with Steve Carell's choice of movie after the 40 Year Old Virgin. Alan Arkin was superb as the grandfather. His love for his granddaughter was real, and the shot at child beauty pageants was really funny! This isn't the age of Ozzie and Harriet, but what you see in this movie is the love of a real American family. This movie will make you smile as much as you laugh, because it felt so real.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

N.F.Jan 28, 2007

This was a great move. It was funny-at times- but I was much more pleased with the great characters like the Grandpa(Alan Arkin) and the fabulous preformance by Steve carrel. All in all, I loved it, and I would totally reccomend it. I just This was a great move. It was funny-at times- but I was much more pleased with the great characters like the Grandpa(Alan Arkin) and the fabulous preformance by Steve carrel. All in all, I loved it, and I would totally reccomend it. I just don't understand why it's getting 1's and 0's, it was a really fun movie to watch. Rent it, watch it, love it.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

DaniS.Feb 23, 2007

I loved this movie. It was a movie that I would describe as refreshing. It was unlike most movies and it made me laugh!

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

SamJDec 13, 2006

This film had such an intriguing and interesting cast of characters that once it got rolling, it had me glued to the seat. The dialogue is great, and the people cast did their roles with great conviction. My only real complaint was a This film had such an intriguing and interesting cast of characters that once it got rolling, it had me glued to the seat. The dialogue is great, and the people cast did their roles with great conviction. My only real complaint was a somewhat strange (though still plausable) twist involving the Grandfather... it leads to a morbid laugh, though. On that note, it should be noted that this film covers a wide variety of human emotion, which it should definitely be lauded for.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

9

Spielberg00Sep 30, 2011

LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE is an independent film, humorous in its own dark little way. Though the film comes across mostly a drama, it has its funny moments, and all of the humor is either subtle, clever, depressing, or a combination of the three.LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE is an independent film, humorous in its own dark little way. Though the film comes across mostly a drama, it has its funny moments, and all of the humor is either subtle, clever, depressing, or a combination of the three. Though Steve Carrell, now known for his wittingly hilarious role in TV's comedy THE OFFICE, appears as one of the more major characters, Alan Arkin (if any cast member) seems to be the one who draws the most audience laughs. In fact, Carrell delivers most likely the least humorous role. Though he does definitely still have his humor, with a big nod to the scene at the dinner table near the beginning. Other than that, LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE is a heartwarming, sometimes weepy, and ultimately feel-good film. I highly doubt there has been one road movie as good and unpredictable as this since NATIONAL LAMPOON'S VACATION.… Expand

3 of 3 users found this helpful30

All this user's reviews

9

Potter17Oct 16, 2011

The journey of a dysfunctional family to their youngest child stardom leads us into a satirical, poignant and really funny adventure.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

9

grandpajoe6191Sep 30, 2011

"Little Miss Sunshine" is a heart-warm movie. It's well written script delivers that supporting each other as a family, everything is possible. And yes, it is one of the best movies of the year.

6 of 6 users found this helpful60

All this user's reviews

9

hoops2448Oct 24, 2011

Little Miss Sunshine revels in the fact its cleverer than you are and that is not an insult. This highly intelligent black comedy is so fast paced, hilarious and bizarre that not only will you laugh pretty much the entire 90 minutes but youLittle Miss Sunshine revels in the fact its cleverer than you are and that is not an insult. This highly intelligent black comedy is so fast paced, hilarious and bizarre that not only will you laugh pretty much the entire 90 minutes but you will struggle to keep up. The story tells the tale of Olive (Abigail Breslin) who has qualified for a beauty pageant in California so her parents (Greg Kinnear and Toni Collette) decide to go on a trip in their old camper van across the country. They are joined by Oliveâ… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

9

pinkscreenFeb 20, 2012

it's a classic. It's a refreshing movie with good actosr. It's a dark in some ways but you feel good after seing it. The atmosphere, the colors are perfect. Jason Reitman made one of his best movie with '' Little Miss sushine '' .

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

9

Ips207Mar 14, 2012

Little Miss Sunshine is one of those movies that you could keep watching over and over again and not get bored. It's an Heart Felt movie about the importance of "family together can beat the odds". It delivers brilliant performances by AlanLittle Miss Sunshine is one of those movies that you could keep watching over and over again and not get bored. It's an Heart Felt movie about the importance of "family together can beat the odds". It delivers brilliant performances by Alan Arkin, Steve Carell, Greg Kinnear and little Abigail Breslin. Toni Collette is the mother who holds the whole family together, and Paul Dano delivers a solid performance as the Color-Blinded Dwayne who dreams of becoming a jet pilot. It's a shame that many don't like it, but it's definitely a 'Solid A' Movie which is beautifully directed.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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9

jools123Aug 4, 2014

This film is darkly comic and has a great acting and character development. It some cheesy scenes though. This multiple academy award winning movie deserves it's awards.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

9

night4Jul 10, 2016

It's about a dysfunctional family you'd want to be a part of because at least it's more interesting than yours.

This is also a movie that could make even the most cynical person root for the little girl and and end up smiling at the end.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

9

The3AcademySinsMar 1, 2019

One of the most uplifting and blackest comedies I have ever seen, Little Miss Sunshine has something for the whole family to enjoy, laugh at, shed tears at, and cringe at. Almost every emotion was invoked within me upon watching this movie.One of the most uplifting and blackest comedies I have ever seen, Little Miss Sunshine has something for the whole family to enjoy, laugh at, shed tears at, and cringe at. Almost every emotion was invoked within me upon watching this movie. Were not for a few unnecessarily pointless bits that had no payoff, this would be a perfect 10 for me. Still, the script, cast, and direction are beautiful. This also marked the beginning of Steve Carrell's journey to becoming a dramatic actor in film. This is a great film, especially if you like really messed up dark comedy.… Expand

1 of 1 users found this helpful10

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9

JP32Mar 25, 2020

Way too often does “quirky” give way to cloying. Except these characters are quirky like real people are, not like overwritten movie characters. And this movie is real and affecting, not tongue in cheek or sarcastic. Little Miss Sunshine is aWay too often does “quirky” give way to cloying. Except these characters are quirky like real people are, not like overwritten movie characters. And this movie is real and affecting, not tongue in cheek or sarcastic. Little Miss Sunshine is a winner.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

9

alejandro970Feb 3, 2019

¿What if put together in a yellow van a lascive grampa, a mute old brother, a 6 YO wanna-be queen beauty, a depressed uncle, and a motivating father? The best sample of how to make a fine comedy. The final sequence of the dance is for play¿What if put together in a yellow van a lascive grampa, a mute old brother, a 6 YO wanna-be queen beauty, a depressed uncle, and a motivating father? The best sample of how to make a fine comedy. The final sequence of the dance is for play with madness. Rush.… Expand

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9

FilipeNetoJun 3, 2020

It is rare to find a comedy as well done and interesting as this one. Generally, horror and comedy are the poor relatives of cinema, as they are usually low-cost productions of questionable quality. In this case, the film breathes quality.It is rare to find a comedy as well done and interesting as this one. Generally, horror and comedy are the poor relatives of cinema, as they are usually low-cost productions of questionable quality. In this case, the film breathes quality. The script is extremely simple and based on an interstate trip that a very crazy family has to make so that Olive, the youngest of the clan, can participate in a child beauty contest that she loves.

Comedy mostly depends on the unusual situations that the characters go through on their journey, which looks like an odyssey. And everything happens here, from problems with the van to a death. The movie may not even make us laugh out loud and it certainly won't, most of the time... but it will make us laugh. As important as the good construction of the comic scenes is the way the characters were thought and developed. And here the script was great: the family man is a motivational therapist who is terrible at what he does; the mother is honest, sincere, dedicated, but she is completely lost and desperate. Then there is the gay uncle who is a Proust fanatic and attempted suicide after being abandoned by his boyfriend, the older brother who is a enraged teen who hates everything and everyone, the brazen and perverse grandfather that no nursing home accepts and finally the sweet and gentle Olive. Oh, and we still have the yellow and white VW Type 2 van, which causes so many problems throughout the trip that it almost ends up becoming an addition to the cast.

The actors were excellent and everyone put in a lot of effort. From the cast, where I immediately notice notable names, I would particularly highlight the excellent work of Steve Carell, Greg Kinnear, Paul Dano, Toni Collette and Alan Arkin. Abigail Breslin, for me, is on another level. The film is truly hers. She is the protagonist, and she has done such a good job for a child actress that it is difficult to imagine that she will not have an excellent career in cinema if she continues to strive. Something that deserves some attention in this film are the dialogues and the lines. Despite the regular use of heavy words, the dialogues have real pearls, worthy of quote.

The film won two Oscars (Best Original Screenplay and Best Supporting Actor, for Alan Arkin), but was still nominated in the categories of Best Film and Best Supporting Actress (for Abigail Breslin, although she is the main actress in this film, I think ). It is a film that, in addition to everything I have mentioned, has very regular sets and costumes and also a decent cinematography, despite not being, notoriously, a film that draws attention by the production values.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

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9

vusal_iskandarJan 2, 2020

I watched this film one week ago and then one terrible thing happened to me. I broke my phone. It is okay I know, but it is the 4th time in the same year and I felt terrible when noticing that broke. But I suddenly thought that okay VusalI watched this film one week ago and then one terrible thing happened to me. I broke my phone. It is okay I know, but it is the 4th time in the same year and I felt terrible when noticing that broke. But I suddenly thought that okay Vusal remember that films you recently watched. Did you remember what these guys were doing when meeting terrible stuffs. Yes they are doing their works whenever happens if it is someting they can not prevent it to happen. Yes I did say to me these. When I watched this film, and saw their grandpa died, they nearly did not catch registration, I understood the main target of film, key point in it. I got it babe. Yeeeaah that s the lesson I learned from this beautiful, nice and very sweet film!… Expand

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9

royalguy07Jul 24, 2023

Full of heart and charm even if its themes are very serious and sad. Very funny.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

9

EDOGGYTHEMOVIEMay 16, 2022

This movie is really good. This movie is really good. This movie is really good.

0 of 0 users found this helpful00

All this user's reviews

8

MaubiusSep 10, 2006

I laughed out loud quite a bit. Very funny, and highly recommended.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

PatC.Feb 1, 2007

Good show, almost great. So delicious that one tends to ignore the spillage when it goes over the top. As entertainment that rings true it's immediately gratifying, but the contrivances linger.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

ElliotP.Feb 4, 2007

A fun movie, well-done, even though the plot has been little over-done.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

TracyB.Aug 6, 2006

Clever and enjoyable film- many twists that I did not see coming. Great cast.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

ConradV.Sep 2, 2006

If you take this as light comedy with occasional trenchant satire to give it some depth, it's a lot of fun. If you take it too seriously and try to give it "deep meaning," it's too shallow to support that much weight. No matter; it If you take this as light comedy with occasional trenchant satire to give it some depth, it's a lot of fun. If you take it too seriously and try to give it "deep meaning," it's too shallow to support that much weight. No matter; it needn't be this year's Grand Social Indictment - do you actually KNOW anyone who's deeply involved in little-girl beauty pageants? I don't - and on its own terms it never flags and seldom sashays into cliche. As might be expected, Alan Arkin runs away with the honors, but Abigail Breslin comes awfully close, and there is no weak link anywhere in the ensemble.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

AnymouseJan 1, 2007

Very good film! Good actors, touching story. I loved it for its atmoshere and for its characters. It was worth watching, thought i think, that the ending is a little bit lame.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

MarkJ.Jan 2, 2007

A truly touching summer film. At its humourous best it had traces of the sibling rivalries of Chevy Chase's National Lampoon Vacation movies, but what makes it great is a superb cast delivering highly personable characters, allowing for A truly touching summer film. At its humourous best it had traces of the sibling rivalries of Chevy Chase's National Lampoon Vacation movies, but what makes it great is a superb cast delivering highly personable characters, allowing for great empathy from all walks of life.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

TonyT.Feb 7, 2007

Loved the movie. Could have done without all of the F-bombs. I loved the ending of the pagent.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

RyanM.Mar 21, 2007

Heartfelt, satirical and entertaining movie. a masterpiece, no, but it has worth from the dialogue, timing and developed characters. worth seeing but not something to completely wrap your mind around. just a neat little nice movie. as for Heartfelt, satirical and entertaining movie. a masterpiece, no, but it has worth from the dialogue, timing and developed characters. worth seeing but not something to completely wrap your mind around. just a neat little nice movie. as for the bad reviews here, i'd be interested to see how many are men and what age they may be.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

BorisH.May 31, 2007

Charming, with lots of genuine laughs.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

JoePDec 27, 2006

I have to say this movie was quite entertaining. Seven year old Olive (Abigail Breslin) is a nerdy girl trying to compete for Little Miss Sunshine against California young beauty queens. She and her whole family head from New Mexico head off I have to say this movie was quite entertaining. Seven year old Olive (Abigail Breslin) is a nerdy girl trying to compete for Little Miss Sunshine against California young beauty queens. She and her whole family head from New Mexico head off to California to compete. She teaches her elders an important lesson.. Greg Kinnear is the father who thinks there is no such thing as second place. The whole family is dysfunctional. The Dad is a motivational speaker that has a meltdown, the son won't talk, grandfather is a heroin snorting junkie , and Steve Carrell is the very funny mothers brother who just got out of a mental institution after his teenage boyfriend dumped him. All in all, Little Miss Sunshine provided a different refreshing twist to a very quirky, yet funny comedy that is a very enjoyable movie to watch for the whole family.… Expand

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

MaseAug 12, 2006

How refreshing this movie feelsm, after so much over hyped junk has already come out this summer. Toni Collette is incredible. Everything just comes together for some cool breezy entertainment.

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

AlanW.Sep 18, 2006

Great film, I really enjoyed it - very god acting and very funny!

0 of 0 users found this helpful

8

DeWayneP.P.Sep 24, 2006

What a wonderful film! It starts out a bit slow, but slowly grabs you by your laughing-bug and never lets your tonsils rest!...that classic Rick James song at the end pays an unrepentant tribute to a unforgettable musical icon. It was Super What a wonderful film! It starts out a bit slow, but slowly grabs you by your laughing-bug and never lets your tonsils rest!...that classic Rick James song at the end pays an unrepentant tribute to a unforgettable musical icon. It was Super Freaky, yeah!!!… Expand

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8

DanB.Jan 14, 2007

Pretty funny. Pretty clever. Grandpa's the best and he dies, but, still. Oh and, is it me or does Greg Kinnear seem to always be in movies that are good? Either he or someone working for him knows how to choose scripts, or something.

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8

TristanJ.Jun 5, 2007

Some great acting accompanies a good script with some awesome characters. Only let downs are the predictable nature of the plot, and the cliche ending. That said, it gives you the warm fuzzys you don't expect; there's a bit of Some great acting accompanies a good script with some awesome characters. Only let downs are the predictable nature of the plot, and the cliche ending. That said, it gives you the warm fuzzys you don't expect; there's a bit of everyone's family in this movie.… Expand

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8

RobertI.Dec 10, 2006

True to the core of rancho America, where pageants hold a kind of loopy promise for unrecognized talent. Each of these keenly etched characters fulfills an individual portrait, framed by a director's unique graphic vision. In between True to the core of rancho America, where pageants hold a kind of loopy promise for unrecognized talent. Each of these keenly etched characters fulfills an individual portrait, framed by a director's unique graphic vision. In between the laughs, the family huddles with red menus around a diner table, or sprawls as wide as the landscape, punctuated by that yellow van. There is a real eye here, as well as an eye for human comedy and cloying hope.… Expand

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8

StuartSOct 21, 2006

I don't laugh at loud very often. This picture will make you laugh. If you need something to pick you up quickly, then I recommend this movie.

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8

DanC.Aug 18, 2006

Good stuff, understated and fun with some inspired comic moments.

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8

DanaM.Aug 27, 2006

Fun movie. Well worth the price of admission. Rated R for strong language but not excessive. Recommended for adults. Interesting insight of young girl beauty pagents.

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8

JamesAug 31, 2006

Very sweet and funny. But I wonder if the filmmakers have seen "Rolling Family" (2004) by Argentinean filmmaker Pablo Trapero. It's just getting a theatrical release in North America now and people will think it's ripping off LMS, Very sweet and funny. But I wonder if the filmmakers have seen "Rolling Family" (2004) by Argentinean filmmaker Pablo Trapero. It's just getting a theatrical release in North America now and people will think it's ripping off LMS, which is too bad.… Expand

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8

ZoeM.Sep 17, 2006

Aside from some forced plot twists, this is an unusual comedy that navigates some darkness and some sunshine, and it deftly manages to steer its way through both in an entertaining fashion. It's not one of those "I have to think about Aside from some forced plot twists, this is an unusual comedy that navigates some darkness and some sunshine, and it deftly manages to steer its way through both in an entertaining fashion. It's not one of those "I have to think about it to enjoy it" type of movies. It's entertaining merely at face value, and yet as you think on it, you remember more and more aabout the characters and their motivations. I highly recommend this movie and will definitely be buying it on DVD.… Expand

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8

ChristopherJ.Mar 17, 2007

A film that I love because it asked interesting questions, like, "After your singular dream is shattered into a trillion pieces... then what??" How fascinating a question is that? Most dreamers think the question shouldn't even be A film that I love because it asked interesting questions, like, "After your singular dream is shattered into a trillion pieces... then what??" How fascinating a question is that? Most dreamers think the question shouldn't even be asked, but reality is taken head on in this film. I didn't love the grampa; his attitude was ridiculous to me, but the rest of the film was inspiring and had a ring of exciting truth in it.… Expand

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8

BryanS.Dec 25, 2006

An incredibly solid comedy that is, at times, both hilarious and quitely brilliant.

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8

EldonDec 29, 2006

Just awesome, really. That is if it doesn't go over your head, as it clearly has with some reviewers here. Geez, get a clue.

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8

debjyotinsecJan 26, 2012

story is just awesome
direction=no complex..simply go on according the story
message is just fantastic...learnable comedy with laughs.
so i like it
i like it
i like it
v
i like it
i like it
i like it

i like it

i like it

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8

beingryanjudeAug 25, 2014

A unique road movie with a whole lot of heart and soul. Michael Arndt writes one exceptional screenplay to support this ensemble of incredibly talented actors. Yes, Alan Arkin and Abigail Breslin are brilliant, but so are Steve Carell, ToniA unique road movie with a whole lot of heart and soul. Michael Arndt writes one exceptional screenplay to support this ensemble of incredibly talented actors. Yes, Alan Arkin and Abigail Breslin are brilliant, but so are Steve Carell, Toni Collette and Greg Kinnear.… Expand

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8

katelynmccJun 17, 2012

This film was an excellent treat. The cast was superb, with strong performances from the youngest to the smallest Hoover. The movie offered up tear-jerking moments galore, but the humor never failed to peak through. The balance was just rightThis film was an excellent treat. The cast was superb, with strong performances from the youngest to the smallest Hoover. The movie offered up tear-jerking moments galore, but the humor never failed to peak through. The balance was just right to present a truly entertaining movie that still provided a deeply engaging human element.… Expand

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8

SpangleJun 26, 2013

Really funny and heartwarming film as the family turns it around. All of the actors did well, the script was really well done and the directors did an awesome job. Deserves the accolades and acclaim its received.

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8

cameronmorewoodNov 15, 2012

Little Miss Sunshine transcends the family road movie, and though it feels a little incomplete when the end roles around, we still had a great time all the way through.

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8

LonePiperMay 21, 2013

I really enjoyed this movie as living in a country saturated by US culture, I appreciated how slyly this film managed to satirise it.

On top of that, the characters were beautifully rich, all of them with fatal flaws yet lovable all theI really enjoyed this movie as living in a country saturated by US culture, I appreciated how slyly this film managed to satirise it.

On top of that, the characters were beautifully rich, all of them with fatal flaws yet lovable all the same, and there were a number of beautiful comedy moments.… Expand

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8

JmsbppJul 16, 2013

Excelente actuacion por parte de todos destacando el trabajo de Abigail Breslin, la pelicula ronda como una familia totalmente separada de lo que es una familia buena y comun, todo estaba destrozado todo el mundo por su lado, una pelicula queExcelente actuacion por parte de todos destacando el trabajo de Abigail Breslin, la pelicula ronda como una familia totalmente separada de lo que es una familia buena y comun, todo estaba destrozado todo el mundo por su lado, una pelicula que deja mucho que pensar.… Expand

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8

ypomoniJul 5, 2013

This dysfunctional family may at first seem unbelievable. As the film progresses, they become so familiar! And loveable! You cannot help but laugh with the little (and outrageous) things that occur in their lives! Although issues like drugThis dysfunctional family may at first seem unbelievable. As the film progresses, they become so familiar! And loveable! You cannot help but laugh with the little (and outrageous) things that occur in their lives! Although issues like drug addiction and suicide are touched upon, it is done in a sensitive matter. By the end of the film you feel euphoric and uplifted!!! PS Excellent acting from all!!!… Expand

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8

PetitBikiniOct 29, 2016

"Little Miss Sunshine" is a great road-trip ensemble comedy. It made me smile, laugh, cheer, cringe and just happy. It may not be the best film ever, but a great film nevertheless.

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8

EpicLadySpongeMay 7, 2016

Why does the sun shine yellow every single day? Is that question easy to explain or is it a question no one seems to care about? Why am I asking all of these questions to you? Because Little Miss Sunshine seems to be a hilarious dramaticWhy does the sun shine yellow every single day? Is that question easy to explain or is it a question no one seems to care about? Why am I asking all of these questions to you? Because Little Miss Sunshine seems to be a hilarious dramatic piece of history on the road that actually takes a gut out to make you laugh.… Expand

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8

loremApr 3, 2020

A beautiful movie that presents extremely well some common events in a cause and effect relationship.

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7

AbbyR.Oct 20, 2006

Is winning really everything?

0 of 1 users found this helpful

7

GaborA.Aug 6, 2006

The trailer made it seem like this movie was going to be some indie, high brow, artsy film but as stated it really was more like a sitcom. Fortunately the comedy though silly is never really juvenile and the drama manages to not be cheasy. The trailer made it seem like this movie was going to be some indie, high brow, artsy film but as stated it really was more like a sitcom. Fortunately the comedy though silly is never really juvenile and the drama manages to not be cheasy. Entertaining but like a sitcom episode easily forgetable.… Expand

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7

JamesM.Jan 22, 2007

I had heard the critics say how good this movie is so I wantedI enjoyed the movie. I laughed at the funny antics like everyone else but I really started to get interested in it after I began to add up all the pieces of Alan Arkin's I had heard the critics say how good this movie is so I wantedI enjoyed the movie. I laughed at the funny antics like everyone else but I really started to get interested in it after I began to add up all the pieces of Alan Arkin's character and came to the conclusion that he's a child molester. There are so many signals that this might be true through out the movie that it becomes kind of sad. Sad because we, the audience, like the family are totally oblivious to the fact that he is probably molesting her the whole time he's in the movie. Because it's played by Mr. Arkin we think that this character is just a harmless heroin sniffing, foul mouthed porn magazine toting old man that just happens to share the hotel room with his granddaughter. The child is so innocent that she sees nothing wrong with sharing the strip tease he taught her to Rick James' "Super Freak" and the parents had no idea what he was teaching her. Even the shots of the little girls in the pageant remind you of JonBenet Ramsey and make you think "what's going on here?".… Expand

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7

DWillyAug 5, 2006

While it teeters at times at the not-so-good edge, there are enough surprises and substantial quality work to make it ultimately gratify. It gets far by jolting the heart with its tried and true theme: family is an insane mess thatWhile it teeters at times at the not-so-good edge, there are enough surprises and substantial quality work to make it ultimately gratify. It gets far by jolting the heart with its tried and true theme: family is an insane mess that nonetheless sustains; the same one that's carried the Simpsons, Malcolm In The Middle, Married With Children, etc. No real standout performances, but everyone holding up their end.… Expand

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7

BrianT.Sep 26, 2006

Well acted and enjoys perfect casting but this movie is vastly overrated. It's funny in parts but just not all that entertaining overall.

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7

GeorgeB.Aug 24, 2006

Some funny scenes with all the cast, but in total a pretty limp film. Go see but don't expect too much. Good for a few laughs.

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7

ChadS.Aug 31, 2006

The big comedic scene in "Little Miss Sunshine" is unlikely; but funny, riotously so. It seems like the filmmakers got carried away with their agenda to indict the children's beauty paegant industry as a meat market at the expense of The big comedic scene in "Little Miss Sunshine" is unlikely; but funny, riotously so. It seems like the filmmakers got carried away with their agenda to indict the children's beauty paegant industry as a meat market at the expense of demonizing the grandfather as a drug-addled pedophile. As played by Alan Arkin, I do not believe he would ask his granddaughter to vamp for an audience. But it's funny. "Little Miss Sunshine" stops being a routine dysfunctional family-pic when the family arrives at their destination. Greg Kinnear's reaction shots are priceless. He's obviously trying to keep an open mind against his better judgment about the prepubescents parading across the stage instead of just flat-out cringing like the rest of us.… Expand

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7

KaseySwisherAug 4, 2006

I expected more and better. First, the good. Great performances by Paul Dano and Greg Kinner. There are some parts that are hysterical. But this is one movie where the ending saves the film as a whole. The characters are undeveloped. TheI expected more and better. First, the good. Great performances by Paul Dano and Greg Kinner. There are some parts that are hysterical. But this is one movie where the ending saves the film as a whole. The characters are undeveloped. The movies just jumps into this family with all of these problems without explanation. As a result, there are many times when the "drama" just seems like a bad episode of 'Party of Five.' In short, there are several places where it is WAY overdone. Point in case is the scene with Paul Dano's character revelation. Instead of understating the humor and the drama, a la "The Royal Tenanbaums" and "Lost in Translation," the movie went over the top both in humor and in drama. Too much slapstick. Too many problems (like the melodrama "Pay it Forward"). But the movie ended well, it didn't go too far, and it wasn't unnecessarily long. It was an enjoyable film to watch. Nonetheless, it did not reach the expectations I had given the cast and the plot. Still, go see it.… Expand

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7

AndrewT.Sep 16, 2006

Enjoyable "indie" style comedy, a road movie with plenty of laughs plus some rewarding insights on the human condition.

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7

WillyP.Dec 19, 2006

Overrated, calculated "indie" flick, with a great cast that overcomes the pat characterizations and second-hand plot twists.

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7

ScottS.Dec 25, 2006

Not quite what everyone is making it out to be, but it keeps your attention and is well worth watching

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7

imthenoobJul 21, 2020

It's a surprisingly fast-paced film that isn't really about a trip to a beauty pageant but more about the personal growth that the family takes along the way as everything seemingly falls for apart for them (both literally and figuratively).It's a surprisingly fast-paced film that isn't really about a trip to a beauty pageant but more about the personal growth that the family takes along the way as everything seemingly falls for apart for them (both literally and figuratively). The directors truly brought the best out of the cast and it made the film all the more satisfying to watch.

Running around 90 minutes, It's a short but sweet movie with a lot of heart.… Expand

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7

Compi24Oct 21, 2015

An unabashed love letter to the modern American family dynamic, "Little Miss Sunshine's" heart and humor elevate into the heights of cinematic brilliance.

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7

johnslegersJan 3, 2016

Little Miss Sunshine seems to be a film with very polarized opinion considering most people seem to either love it or hate it. Well, I belong to that small remaining category of people who appreciated this film but expected more out of it.Little Miss Sunshine seems to be a film with very polarized opinion considering most people seem to either love it or hate it. Well, I belong to that small remaining category of people who appreciated this film but expected more out of it.

The film has an interesting message and once they arrive in California this message is worked out really well, however the road trip it takes to get there isn't as interesting as I expected. The events that occur aren't that compelling nor are they that funny, making an actual road trip far more interesting than watching this family doing theirs. I believe it's a missed opportunity here, although I nevertheless think the ending saves this film from being forgettable. With a different ending, I would probably have rated it a 6 at most.… Expand

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7

mellonheadDec 26, 2018

It's generally a fun movie, but little more than that. It plays a lot more like Bad Words, except it kind of has a plot, is less profane, and takes itself "a little" too seriously. It's trying to be bigger than life, but succeeds more atIt's generally a fun movie, but little more than that. It plays a lot more like Bad Words, except it kind of has a plot, is less profane, and takes itself "a little" too seriously. It's trying to be bigger than life, but succeeds more at being a parody. It has the blueprint for something better, but most of the characters are far too unlikable, meaningful scenes are forced, and the movie never focuses on any one thing all too long. A few scenes on suicide here, a few scenes on a rocky divorce there... It wants to be taken seriously, yet one scene that attempts to be impactful is followed by some bad joke. There really were no likable characters because the movie seemed to forget about character development. It's too fragmented and doesn't focus on any one idea long enough. The story that ties it all together is fairly lacking, if not shallow. While a movie doesn't necessarily need to be about its plot, this doesn't make up its mind about what it wants to be.… Expand

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6

MarkBayerOct 2, 2006

The fact that late-summer audiences so enthusiastically embraced this mildly likable but largely derivative, unimaginative family comedy-drama/ social satire/ road movie/ would-be Microcosm of America is proof positive that at the end of an The fact that late-summer audiences so enthusiastically embraced this mildly likable but largely derivative, unimaginative family comedy-drama/ social satire/ road movie/ would-be Microcosm of America is proof positive that at the end of an even more dismally mindless movie summer than usual, moviegoers are absolutely starved for anything that presents even an illusion of intelligence, originality or depth. The family dinner in the Hoover household that opens the movie, and in which all their goals, problems, conflicts and neuroses are artlessly laid out for us, is as clunky, amateurish and contrived as the worst Screenwriting 101 project can get, and the movie misses what should've been some easy, obvious targets completely: even though it tries to get some symbolic mileage out of dad Richard's aspiring career as a motivational speaker, a cursory viewing of a 3 AM infomercial featuring Tony Robbins and Leeza Gibbons yields far more pertinent (if unintentional) commentary about the motivation-for-money business than anything seen here. Acting is uneven: Greg Kinnear (Richard) mined the American Everyman field to much greater results in this year's earlier The Matador, while Alan Arkin, as a dirty old druggie grandpa, adds nothing new to that hoary old independent movie cliché. (But don't be surprised if, like Don Ameche and James Coburn, he walks off with a Lifetime Achievement --oops, Best Supporting Actor Oscar for this trite performance!) On the other hand, Toni Collette, as beleaguered mom Sheryl, proves once again, as she's recently done in The Night Whisperer and In Her Shoes, that she's any movie's secret weapon, while Steve Carell, who at this point in his career seems incapable of doing ANYTHING wrong, balances his manic, hilarious vocal work as Hammy the Squirrel in Over the Hedge with a wonderfully subtle, nuanced portrayal of Sheryl's suicidal gay brother. And the kids are alright, too: Paul Dano, as the Hoovers' resolutely mute son, says more with silences than many actors do with pages of dialogue, while Abigail Breslin, as would-be child beauty pageant contestant Olive, is a joy to watch because she's so thoroughly unaffected. (An Entertainment Weekly interview with her revealed that what she wanted right now more than anything else was to catch a frog. That seems to explain it.) In fact, little Olive herself is so sweet, sensible and thoroughly NORMAL that you can't help but wonder who left her in a basket on the Hoovers' doorstep many years ago; I loved how, even though she very much wants to be in this pageant, she's mature enough to sacrifice it on several occasions when a family crisis appears to interfere. And although one of those emergencies will prove instantly recognizable to anyone who's seen National Lampoon's Vacation, the movie really accelerates at roughly the same pace at which the Hoovers' smiley-face yellow van breaks down. The situations (and the family's reaction to them) get funnier, and the movie barrels into a terrific beauty pageant finale (with no small assistance by Beth Grant, who as an officious official, is a marvelous comic foil) in which Olive innocently exposes children's beauty pageants for the truly repellent, disgusting obscenities that they are. A lovely, Chaplinesque final shot ices the cake, but the question remains: is Little Miss Sunshine's dynamite finish enough to compensate for the sluggishness of most of what precedes it and bump it from a 6 to a 7? Well, let's put it this way, if the fierceness of its attack on kiddie pageants were enough to get them run off the face of the earth, it just might...but then, the JonBenet Ramsey murder (whose recent reemergence as a news story provided this movie with the most unsavory free publicity since the Three Mile Island nuclear accident boosted The China Syndrome back in 1979) wasn't quite enough to get those pedophilic meat parades banned, so...… Expand

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6

RosauraC.Aug 10, 2006

It was funny in parts and okay overall, but it could have been funnier. The direction and editing are largely at fault. . Laughs were stepped on and opportunities for good reaction shots were missed. When Duane has his revelation there are It was funny in parts and okay overall, but it could have been funnier. The direction and editing are largely at fault. . Laughs were stepped on and opportunities for good reaction shots were missed. When Duane has his revelation there are funnier things he could have said. The coming attractions for this were brilliant; the film not so much.… Expand

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6

MichaelWoodsAug 5, 2006

One too many characters with extreme drawbacks who we are supposed to find endearing in their dysfunction. I laughed a number of times, but under the zaniness, there's something sad and even, at moments, a little nasty. Don't takeOne too many characters with extreme drawbacks who we are supposed to find endearing in their dysfunction. I laughed a number of times, but under the zaniness, there's something sad and even, at moments, a little nasty. Don't take younger kids unless you want them thinking F*** is normal speech.… Expand

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6

JackB.Feb 21, 2007

The film had its moments, but overall it had this annoying, unsubtle sense of self-importance and preciousness that just didn't sell me. Maybe it was too much DeVotchka and Sufjan and wistful facial expressions.

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Little Miss Sunshine

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