Little Miss Sunshine
Fox Searchlight Pictures | Release Date: July 26, 2006
7.5
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 697 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
546
Mixed:
51
Negative:
100
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User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
10
RoseAnneS.Aug 14, 2006
You won't find a better comedy this summer, or this year, for that matter. The comedy will bring tears to your eyes and aches to your sides. You won't look at family travel the same, much less Rick James' "Kinky Girl." A must see!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
LucyAug 17, 2006
The best movie I've seen in a very long time...and I'm QUITE a picky movie buff. Everything from the acting, storyline, twists, and lessons.....fabulous!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
GrahamM.Aug 18, 2006
This was an excellent movie I must say. Carell was excellent. This is much better than mainstream films a lot of the time.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
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
10
KrisV.H.Aug 2, 2006
Excellent movie!
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
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.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
CablesAug 24, 2006
The bad scores seem to reflect on the fact that it's not a movie for kids. Maybe the people who voted based on that premise should have looked at the rating (R) before they took their kids to see it. This is the best American film The bad scores seem to reflect on the fact that it's not a movie for kids. Maybe the people who voted based on that premise should have looked at the rating (R) before they took their kids to see it. This is the best American film you'll see all year, hands down. Don't miss this.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JamesB.Aug 26, 2006
Exceptional. The best movie in years. Even the pace is good--starts a bit slow and picks up throughout.
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
2
JarvisS.Aug 31, 2006
Pretends to rock a million boats but at its core, Little Miss Sunshine is soft as caramel. It allows the shallow among us to laugh at "all those other people with problems" while never acknowledging that sentimentality is the enemy of Pretends to rock a million boats but at its core, Little Miss Sunshine is soft as caramel. It allows the shallow among us to laugh at "all those other people with problems" while never acknowledging that sentimentality is the enemy of satire. Barely rises above the level of flaccid sitcom writing. It gets a "2" for its cast, among whom Alan Arkin is the true standout.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
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
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
DavisR.Aug 31, 2006
After being forced into seeing The 40-Year-Old Virgin, I was sure that I would not see a worse movie for the next fifteen years. Unfortunately the same person who dragged me into The 40-Year-Old Virgin talked me into giving Little Miss After being forced into seeing The 40-Year-Old Virgin, I was sure that I would not see a worse movie for the next fifteen years. Unfortunately the same person who dragged me into The 40-Year-Old Virgin talked me into giving Little Miss Sunshine a chance, so I did. Those fifteen years I gave myself to see a worse movie quickly changed to little under a year. An embarassing effort from Dayton and company. Painful to sit through and humorless.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
TimN.Aug 30, 2006
Amazing film. It was at the same time funny, sad, inspirational, and most importantly of all, optimistic, with a little bit of black humour in there... [***SPOILERS***] really good message from the film (life is what you make of it--treat it Amazing film. It was at the same time funny, sad, inspirational, and most importantly of all, optimistic, with a little bit of black humour in there... [***SPOILERS***] really good message from the film (life is what you make of it--treat it like crap, and you'll live it miserably...but favour what you have, and you'll be happy for the rest of your life, no matter WHAT comes your way. Be carefree, and live life to its fullest.), and it's one of the only films where you truly feel optimistic and happy about your life to come. Also, the movie did a really good job of portraying how absolutely sick in the head America is when it comes to these child beauty pageants, and how they are totally pointless...I saw a show on it on A&E once, and I was shocked. I mean, the parents of these kids are literally insane when they do this, and it's putrid that they dress them up and make them do such things at such a young age. So, yeah...definitely the best film I've seen all year, besides Snakes on a Plane (they're two totally different films, so, you can't really compare them...). Oh, and a wonderful soundtrack to it. I must pick it up.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
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
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
CynS.Sep 11, 2006
Subversive and hilarious.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
JimG.Sep 15, 2006
Funny but clichéd. This is one shitty fucking "indie" flick.
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
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
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
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
AmirHosseinS.Sep 28, 2006
This movie was definitely the best American comedy in many years.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
DavidLSep 28, 2006
highly over-rated
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
SteveG.Sep 29, 2006
Lame, Reminded me of a high school play. The great Toni Collette was completely wasted.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
LindyV.Sep 29, 2006
Fantastic movie, makes you laugh, tear up, cringe and smile. Reminded me of my fun yet dysfunctional family.
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
10
SharonSulvasonSep 7, 2006
Laughed out loud throughout the movie! Loved it!
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
3
AllanT.Jan 12, 2007
Enoumously overrated movie. Typically "quirky character ensemble" that the chumps at Sundance regularly swoon for. Totally diconnected when it comes to the relationships between the characters, and to the incidents in the story.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
IgorG.Jan 14, 2007
Overrated. It never ceases to amaze me how an audience will sit through a 100-minute flick in silence except for two or three laugh-out-loud moments, then label the thing "hilarious," and "hysterically funny." Come on people, raise your Overrated. It never ceases to amaze me how an audience will sit through a 100-minute flick in silence except for two or three laugh-out-loud moments, then label the thing "hilarious," and "hysterically funny." Come on people, raise your standards -- don't give modest efforts like this rave reviews just because they have a few moments of poignancy and chuckles.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
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.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
5
MikeW.Jan 14, 2007
Very overrated. Mildly amusing in a few spots but predictable. I was disappointed given all the "rave" reviews.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
TonyFJan 16, 2007
Incredibly overrated. Critics love these quirky independent films. I think they are so starved for good movies they overreact to anything different. Not very funny and not very insightful.
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
1
HappyKillmoreJan 22, 2007
If you liked Sideways, you'll like this movie. The movie did make me laugh out loud once or twice, which I suppose would lead some to believe I enjoyed it. However, it was more or less the same laugh I get watching America's If you liked Sideways, you'll like this movie. The movie did make me laugh out loud once or twice, which I suppose would lead some to believe I enjoyed it. However, it was more or less the same laugh I get watching America's Funniest Home Videos where the little kid whacks the father in the nuts with a plastic bat. These characters are under-developed and uninteresting. They've tried to find the freakiest combination of liberals possible. Drug-addicted foul mouthed grandfather who ends up dieing mid-road trip and gets lugged along (You've seen this movie before, it was National Lampoon's Vacation which I'd give 9 out of 10). The son who doesn't speak until he realizes he can't become a military pilot. But he's 15 which means he's in school, right? How do you get through school without talking? The brother-in-law is gay and suicidal and explains exactly why he's suicidal to the daughter at the dinner table. Seems like a loser to me. The mother has absolutely no interest in what the grandfather is teaching her to do at the Little Miss Sunshine contest and also, evidently, has never been to a competition. Way to go mom. Finally, the father is trying to be a "self-help" guru but hasn't tried a single one of his step on his OWN FAMILY! He doesn't deserve to succeed since he lives with the biggest bunch of rag-tag morons on the planet! This movie was awful. I didn't like the characters, I didn't identify with the characters, I didn't care about the characters. They all deserved to fail...and they did.… Expand
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
10
AaronL.Jan 23, 2007
Allan and Ethan have NO IDEA WHAT THEY ARE TALKING ABOUT. This is a splendid dark comedy, whose characters offer endless smiles both through there words and actions. If you are looking for the 40 year old virgin, look else where. Yet, if you Allan and Ethan have NO IDEA WHAT THEY ARE TALKING ABOUT. This is a splendid dark comedy, whose characters offer endless smiles both through there words and actions. If you are looking for the 40 year old virgin, look else where. Yet, if you are looking for You, me, and everyone we know, you will enjoy this film.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
JohnJan 25, 2007
Predictable, cheap, condescending, and hollow. The characters are paper-thin, embodying weird idiosyncratic mannerisms instead of developing into actual, somewhat believable "people;" the script is flat-out awful, poking fun at the Predictable, cheap, condescending, and hollow. The characters are paper-thin, embodying weird idiosyncratic mannerisms instead of developing into actual, somewhat believable "people;" the script is flat-out awful, poking fun at the misfortunes of the characters at every opportunity; and while the acting is decent provided the material, nobody could save this movie from itself. Little Miss Sunshine is not, by any stretch of the imagination, a good (or even decent!) film -- let alone something that gets nominated for Best Picture. Don't believe the hype.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ReidF.Jan 27, 2007
Imagine a comedy in which each of the main characters has to confront losing his or her dream. Now, picture that comedy taking place mostly in a little yellow van that has a character all its own, and you have
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
10
MathewH.Jan 30, 2007
I loved this movie. It's irreverence as survivability, sarcasm as honesty, with the quirks and spasms of a lifetime condensed into a few days journey. Believable? Nah. But why should anyone care. Take the ride. It's carnival faire I loved this movie. It's irreverence as survivability, sarcasm as honesty, with the quirks and spasms of a lifetime condensed into a few days journey. Believable? Nah. But why should anyone care. Take the ride. It's carnival faire to be sure. But a warning. If you take yourself or anyone or anything seriously, this isn't for you. Just read the negative reviews if you have any doubts.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
OsloN.Feb 18, 2007
I am stunned this movie was nominated for best picture. I don
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
AnonymousMCFeb 2, 2007
horrible, simply horrible, it had the wit of an elementary schooler, and the filth of a pervert
0 of 0 users found this helpful
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.
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
4
CaseyF.Mar 2, 2007
I wanted to like this movie, I really did. The film is not bad, yet it is terribly overrated. It kept my eyes pointed toward the screen, but not much more. The characters are very much "end of the spectrum" types: the motivational speaker I wanted to like this movie, I really did. The film is not bad, yet it is terribly overrated. It kept my eyes pointed toward the screen, but not much more. The characters are very much "end of the spectrum" types: the motivational speaker dad is extra anal about motivation, the angst-filled teenager is extra angsty, etc. etc. I waited for the meaningful moments, the lessons about life to show up, but they stayed home. This film is rather predictable and bland from beginning to end, which I found to be surprising, given how promising it looked from the trailer. This film getting a best picture nomination by the "Academy" really pushes home the message that there must be back-scratching and such favors going on when it comes time to pick nominees. Again, it's not bad, just a rather generic ups-and-downs dysfunctional family film with a fuzzy happy ending.… Expand
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
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
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
SophieJul 31, 2007
Wonderful movie. I have never laughed so hard at an ending in my life :) This film gives you a warm fuzzy feeling in your stomach: it truly makes you happy inside, even though there are some moments which get you grabbing the tissues. Great humour.
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
3
ArthurXJan 21, 2008
Watching this movie is the cinematic equivalent of spend 100 minutes with the most irritating people on Earth. The humor is overly camp and the gimmicks are lowbrow and extraordinarily unentertaining.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
FloR.Jan 29, 2008
It was a great feel-good film that has that amazing indie-movie feeling.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
BernardFeb 10, 2008
That was a pretty bad movie. Humor is overly camp and it was a waste of time. Straightforward and predictable, I am surprised they even got nominated for any awards.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
RickWMar 16, 2008
There was little humor in this film, in my opinion. I'm all for suspending some disbelief, but how did the daughter's "talent presentation" qualify her for some regional pageant? And how am I supposed to warm up to a family where There was little humor in this film, in my opinion. I'm all for suspending some disbelief, but how did the daughter's "talent presentation" qualify her for some regional pageant? And how am I supposed to warm up to a family where the parents are so unbelievably (literal use here--I couldn't believe it for a second) that they left her in the hands of the vulgar and inappropriate grandfather, or that they failed to shut the old coot up or even react to his profane rants? If that's a "best picture" candidate, somebody hand me a novel -- quick.… 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
10
LisaFromAustraliaAug 8, 2008
I loved this movie. A simple message effectively delivered. If you like REAL families then you'll love these people.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
SHaneMApr 17, 2009
Epic Film! Pretty funny considering the characters are all like sad!
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
6
DavidGNov 12, 2006
Cute, mildly entertaining, with quirky funny moments. But highly over-rated. Are people so starved of a moving, funny drama that they must give exaggerated praise to such mediocrity? I'm one to give very high praise to a movie that Cute, mildly entertaining, with quirky funny moments. But highly over-rated. Are people so starved of a moving, funny drama that they must give exaggerated praise to such mediocrity? I'm one to give very high praise to a movie that moves me deeply, I am not a cynic like the many movie critics who simply put down most anything. This movie was merely cute, and had its moments. I found the ending offensive, and with little of the "genuinely outrageous and uplifting" character that so many saw in it. I do not feel it made its point well, except in the sense of "preaching to the converted." I saw a child actress made to perform a lewd scene: whether it was in gest, or to make a point, or not, it depicted the sexualization of a child, leading to audience laughter.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
FrankS.Nov 29, 2006
This was a great movie that had it all - pathos, comedy - i thought alan arkin was great - here's a father who suddenly - after all his toughness- puts his arm around his son - who's a loser - and encourages him - great writing a This was a great movie that had it all - pathos, comedy - i thought alan arkin was great - here's a father who suddenly - after all his toughness- puts his arm around his son - who's a loser - and encourages him - great writing a movie not to be missed - best I've seen all year… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
AndreaBOct 13, 2006
Fantastic - everything a comedy should be and more.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
ToddG.Oct 16, 2006
Everything a movie shouldn't be. Nick Lachey should be ashamed of himself for writing such garbage. No wonder he used a pseudonym.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
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
0 of 0 users found this helpful
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.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
6
RachellaW.Dec 10, 2006
Good but not great. The film has some funny moments and scenes, but there's nothing particularly moving nor engaging about it. Some elements seem deliberately cute, and potentially involving scenes are rushed as easy buttons are pushed. Good but not great. The film has some funny moments and scenes, but there's nothing particularly moving nor engaging about it. Some elements seem deliberately cute, and potentially involving scenes are rushed as easy buttons are pushed. Some characters, particularly the grandfather, are merely quirky for quirkiness's sake. The script, overall, is rather thin, and the directing is wildly uneven. Greg Kinnear and Toni Collette are very good in rather slight roles. Steve Carell shows significant range in another underdeveloped role.… Expand
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2
FrankB.Dec 15, 2006
Overated!!! Read David G's review below, exactly what I was saying to myself. Nice little moments with a very embarrasing ending. Do not be fooled by the hype around this " indy" film.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
AndrewGDec 17, 2006
Relatively entertaining, but forced. Most of the characters were written with the depth of a 2nd rate sitcom (the brooding teen boy, the grumpy but lovable grandfather, the lovable misfit daughter, the bumbling but lovable father, the Relatively entertaining, but forced. Most of the characters were written with the depth of a 2nd rate sitcom (the brooding teen boy, the grumpy but lovable grandfather, the lovable misfit daughter, the bumbling but lovable father, the troubled but lovable uncle who also happens to be the token "indy" film gay guy, the hardworking mother who's the core of the family), but were reasonable well acted, considering how lame some of the writing is. Nothing here you haven't seen before.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
0
CheyenneSDec 22, 2006
Will someone please explain the appeal of this movie? Look just because you have the classic quirky formula of cute glasses wearing kid, drug addicted grandfather and bearded depressed character doesnt mean it's good. It means this film Will someone please explain the appeal of this movie? Look just because you have the classic quirky formula of cute glasses wearing kid, drug addicted grandfather and bearded depressed character doesnt mean it's good. It means this film arrived ten years too late. We've seen it all before, get over it critics. We only need one Wes Anderson.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
AnonymousMCDec 23, 2006
I am pissed, and its not because the movie is bad. The movie is great. The movie is one of the most enjoyable movies ever made, and definately the most enjoyable in the past 5 years. I am pissed because of all the bad reviews people giveI am pissed, and its not because the movie is bad. The movie is great. The movie is one of the most enjoyable movies ever made, and definately the most enjoyable in the past 5 years. I am pissed because of all the bad reviews people give this. My god! I watched this with my entire family. We all loved it except for my movie critiquing brother who always has a tendancy to judge movies and games in his first five minutes and keep his opinion no matter what. He was the only one in my entire EXTENDED family who didn't love it. Everyone who hates it is too busy finding ways to hate it, and concocting half-brained similarities to other movies to actually enjoy it. The entire point of movies is enjoyment, and thats what this wonderfully cast {aspecially Steve Carrel}, hilarious satirical comedy that doesn't hit you over the head, and quirky writing and scenes {I loved the entire beuty pagent part} bring. I mean, my God. If you don't enjoy this movie, or at least give it a five, you have something wrong with your personality.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
HollyC.Dec 24, 2006
I'm a total film buff and I thought this movie might be overhyped, but it really blew away any expectations I had. The writing/screenplay was excellent and worked on so many levels. The cast was also outstanding--every single character I'm a total film buff and I thought this movie might be overhyped, but it really blew away any expectations I had. The writing/screenplay was excellent and worked on so many levels. The cast was also outstanding--every single character was wonderfully written and acted. Steve Carrell is turning into quite the actor whether it's comedy or not. Little Miss Sunshine could easily win the Oscar this year and I definitely recommend it to anyone, though some language might be too much for the under 14 crowd. People that compare this to the Griswalds and National Lampoon Vacation movies are strange indeed. This isn't that sort of comedy at all--though it will make you laugh and maybe cry (at the same time). This is a character-driven 'real' movie (not really satire) and quite subtle in a lot of ways. Bravo to Mike Ardnt for writing such a wonderful little film.… Expand
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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
1
FritzmeisterDec 28, 2006
Horrible ! The movie depends on curse words, drug addiction and freaks that are supposingly portraying an American family....A dark comedy and critics loved it ? Excuse me ? I weep for the future .... A waste of time. Period.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
hsDec 31, 2006
In no way was this a comedy. The only art that was humorous was the very end. It is not worth struggling though just to get to that point. When it was over both my girlfriend and I looked at each other and asked how could this get good In no way was this a comedy. The only art that was humorous was the very end. It is not worth struggling though just to get to that point. When it was over both my girlfriend and I looked at each other and asked how could this get good reviews. Sometimes methinks that people give good reviews to lousy movies jsut so they can think they are semi-intelligent or highbrow. Watch ANY movie but this.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
AshleyRussellJul 26, 2006
Great movie
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
[Anonymous]Aug 12, 2006
This movie was amazing. I have not laughed this hard for a very long time.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
YaronS.Aug 12, 2006
Best film of the year so far.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
JoeM.Aug 13, 2006
HORRIBLE. Forced story line, cliche...junk!
0 of 0 users found this helpful
2
ElenaAug 17, 2006
Your typical dysfunctional family on the treadmill to nowhere. A few chuckles but not much else. Tons of problems, everything goes wrong. In the end, still tons of problems everyone loves everyone.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
1
GregM.Aug 17, 2006
I didn't think mainstream indie comedies could be worse than "Garden State". Boy was I wrong.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
DanC.Aug 18, 2006
Good stuff, understated and fun with some inspired comic moments.
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
10
CarolF.Aug 21, 2006
Wonderful, touching, funny, great ensemble. Best movie this year. I loved all of the extremely fallible main characters in this movie.
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
10
FrankieJ.Aug 25, 2006
Best Movie I've seen this year so far... Also the funniest. Definitely a must see.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
PaulF.Aug 26, 2006
Little Miss Sunshine was incredible. I laughed throughout the whole movie. It was so good the audience actually clapped in the end. The plot of the movie centers around a family caught in the cultural race to success but come to find their Little Miss Sunshine was incredible. I laughed throughout the whole movie. It was so good the audience actually clapped in the end. The plot of the movie centers around a family caught in the cultural race to success but come to find their sincere selves throwing off a system of rules that has dysfunctions of its own. Now this is not a movie for young children as there are adult themes and plenty of explicatives liberally sprinkled about. Don't blame the movie if you do not do your research first. Though this is not a movie for kids or prudes I found this movie to be rich in the existential issues that surround having to be alive in this world. I was prodded to think many times and I saw real spiritual change in the characters by the end of the movie. Little Miss Sunshine was no simple comedy, but had real heart. I cannot recommend this movie enough. If you like to laugh, be provoked to think, as well as to identify with something most people in this culture have to face, then this movie is for you.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
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.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JayK.Aug 27, 2006
Great characters,great acting (can Alan Arkin get any better?) and a very funny story. I want to see it again. Much better that most of the crap that came out this summer.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
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
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JimC.Aug 31, 2006
Little Miss Sunshine has got to be the best movie in decades. A true masterpiece in casting, acting, and cinematography. The Hoover family is THE true American family- definately far from perfect. But that is what makes them and families Little Miss Sunshine has got to be the best movie in decades. A true masterpiece in casting, acting, and cinematography. The Hoover family is THE true American family- definately far from perfect. But that is what makes them and families like them, realistic. I can't think of any other movie that portrays what a real family is, except National Lampoon's Vacation and Christmas Vacation. (Europeon and Vegas don't count) It's going to be tough to top Little Miss Sunshine for best movie of 2006. Stop reading these reviews and go see it!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
4
DaveC.Sep 12, 2006
Although I a lot of craft went into this. It was all in the name of manipulating the audience. [***SPOILERS***]The faux-iconography of the dysfunctional family traveling in a VW minivan was pathetic and embarrassing. Characters with whom we Although I a lot of craft went into this. It was all in the name of manipulating the audience. [***SPOILERS***]The faux-iconography of the dysfunctional family traveling in a VW minivan was pathetic and embarrassing. Characters with whom we should apparently be sympathizing (i.e. Dwayne and Frank) are relegated to the film's narrative periphery very early on. Even My Big Fat Greek Wedding was more "indie" than this. What use is this film to anybody PAYING to see it?… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
MartinaD.Sep 14, 2006
Unbelievable film. So smart, and capable of eliciting so many different emotions.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
AndrewT.Sep 16, 2006
Enjoyable "indie" style comedy, a road movie with plenty of laughs plus some rewarding insights on the human condition.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
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
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
KamboL.Sep 19, 2006
Funniest movie ever! Giggle
0 of 0 users found this helpful
3
MatC.Sep 21, 2006
I don't get it. Clichéd to absurdity, this movie is as pointless as Napolean Dynamite, but without the wit. This is more of a "put 6 strong characters in a blender", and "hilariousness ensues". Unfortunately, the jokes are I don't get it. Clichéd to absurdity, this movie is as pointless as Napolean Dynamite, but without the wit. This is more of a "put 6 strong characters in a blender", and "hilariousness ensues". Unfortunately, the jokes are predictable and lack depth. A few gags had some fun in them, but Gramps doing homo jokes doesn't excite me. Maybe when I was 14, but not anymore.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
CarlinhosB.Sep 22, 2006
Smart, minimalist, AMAZING screenplay, get ready for the OSCARS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It
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