The Squid and the Whale
Samuel Goldwyn Films | Release Date: October 5, 2005
7.4
USER SCORE
Generally favorable reviews based on 352 Ratings
USER RATING DISTRIBUTION
Positive:
266
Mixed:
20
Negative:
66
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User Reviews

User scoreBy dateMost helpful
10
CamiK.Jan 14, 2007
Brilliant, superbly acted, and rivetting throughout.
0 of 1 users found this helpful
10
DeirdreB.Jun 20, 2006
I have watched all the commentaries on this movie, many of the reviews, even listened to the director/writer talking about the movie--and his love of psychology.[***SPOILERS***] Does anybody else GET that this movie is about the effects of I have watched all the commentaries on this movie, many of the reviews, even listened to the director/writer talking about the movie--and his love of psychology.[***SPOILERS***] Does anybody else GET that this movie is about the effects of pathological narcissism on a family? People who have narcisstic parents go through this nightmare of splitting, improper boundaries, and nighmarish selfishness ALL THE TIME--whether the parents stay together or not. The movie portays the anguish of the experience of the disorder in a parent--the overvaluation/devaluation funhouse--the dad would be diagnosed as Narcisstic Personality Proper, probably with overt borderline functioning. The son APPEARS to be narcisstically injured from an early age...to attempt to rescue the healthy, dependant parts of a person from the rigid, maladaptive narcissitic defense mechanisms is EXTREMELY DIFFICULT, as you can kind of see from the narcissism of the dad. When I say the film, I thought the director had purposely and knowledgeably made an objects-relation film about pathological narcissism in a family....so many people have narcissistic parents, that this movie just makes you cry for all of us who do...the people who DON'T get it are those who probably have healthy parents with good self-esteem--and though they are clueless, THEY are the lucky ones. Great film--those of us who GET it probably lived it. Pathological narcissism feeds down through families--this is an excellent rendition of the damaged lives it leaves to carry on this painful personality disorder. Does Baumbach consciously realize what he experienced and wrote about?… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ZakT.Jan 1, 2006
Jeff Daniels and Laura Linney are excellent in their roles as self involved parents and all of the characters are written very realistically.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DreJan 22, 2006
Best film of the year.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
AndrewC.Jan 8, 2006
Doubt I'll see a better movie from '05.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
[Anonymous]Feb 3, 2006
Brilliant writing, brilliant acting. Personal, unique directorial vision. Only weakness is slightly unambitious plot.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JaredOct 20, 2005
This is a phenomenal movie. The characters are supposed to be flawed and we are supposed to be disgusted by both the mother and father's behavior, especially the latter's. It is the story of a family breaking apart due to This is a phenomenal movie. The characters are supposed to be flawed and we are supposed to be disgusted by both the mother and father's behavior, especially the latter's. It is the story of a family breaking apart due to selfishness and self-indulgence and the devastating effect that has on the children. At the same time the movie doesn't just leave things in black and white and even inviteds us to sympathize with the father and mother. Those who reviewed this beforehand need to learn that not all characters in movies are supposed to be perfect and it is this very imperfection that is so damaging to the children of such a marriage but which allows us to identify with them. Watch some good movies and you'll see that there are lots of complex characters out there and in the real world as well.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
FrankB.Jan 1, 2006
Thoughtfull, rigorous, funny and sad. Great acting with story the dares not wrap everything up perfectly neatly.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
TracyR.Jan 14, 2006
It's a well-done movie with some things to day about how children react to divorce, no matter how "managed", and some of the foibles of intellectual people having to deal with emotions instead of ideas. But the character of the father It's a well-done movie with some things to day about how children react to divorce, no matter how "managed", and some of the foibles of intellectual people having to deal with emotions instead of ideas. But the character of the father is so over-developed, and to some degree, over-invested in by the director (who no doubt felt this way as a child, but needs to work with his as creative material, not therapy) that frankly the whole movie becomes a reaction to and against him, and the rest of the characters, most noticeably the mother, become washed out by comparison. Unfortunately one's entire reaction to the movie becomes dependent on whether you find Dad utterly annoying and worthless, or somehow touching despite the bluster. And that probably accounts for the wildly differing reviews.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
BillM.Feb 3, 2006
A small, wonderful movie. Terrific script, beautifully acted. Highly recommended.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
BryanMar 27, 2006
my only problem with this movie is that in 1987, there is no way that Walt plays "Hey You" and passes it off as his own and no one calls him on it until AFTER the concert is over. The Wall was huge at that point and someone would have my only problem with this movie is that in 1987, there is no way that Walt plays "Hey You" and passes it off as his own and no one calls him on it until AFTER the concert is over. The Wall was huge at that point and someone would have noticed before the concert even started and said something.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
EkwW.Mar 31, 2006
This excellent film dissects the woes of a hyper-intellectual couple whose confused children struggle to grasp the full, awful meaning of divorce. Performances are universally good, especially Daniels and young Jesse Eisenberg. Linney is This excellent film dissects the woes of a hyper-intellectual couple whose confused children struggle to grasp the full, awful meaning of divorce. Performances are universally good, especially Daniels and young Jesse Eisenberg. Linney is also fine as the cheating mother. The script has sharp, caustic dialogue and sudden, immediate generalities which burst forth from the pompous father and rebound from his elder son as gospel. Anyone who has been in the middle of a divorce - whether children or the actual adult participants - will feel the sting.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
EvanS.Apr 15, 2006
To all those people who rated this movie poorly, um, you're idiots. Yes, it's painful to watch this film and that's point because the subject of this film is, um, tough and raw. Divorce is devastating, especially for a To all those people who rated this movie poorly, um, you're idiots. Yes, it's painful to watch this film and that's point because the subject of this film is, um, tough and raw. Divorce is devastating, especially for a teenager and the fact that Noah Baumbach infuses so much subversive humor (like Jeff Daniel's taking his son to see "Blue Velvet") is miraculous. This is the first American film I've seen that's able to effectively skewer our divorce culture and show the real emotional fallout without blinking.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
kevinMay 12, 2006
This movie is incredible. fred b. is an idiot. things were resolved at the end of this film, you just had to pay attention to symbolism. [***SPOILER***] when walt is in his therapist's office he said he was always scared of the squid This movie is incredible. fred b. is an idiot. things were resolved at the end of this film, you just had to pay attention to symbolism. [***SPOILER***] when walt is in his therapist's office he said he was always scared of the squid and the whale fighting and had to watch with his hands over his eyes. the squid and the whale symbolize his parents, and walt going to watch the squid and the whale at the end symbolizes him coming to terms with his parent's divorce because he is no longer afraid to watch the squid and the whale (AKA his parents) fight anymore.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
7
AdrianNov 16, 2005
An "Ordinary People" for the oughts...Who would empathize members of a wealthy white family whose only worry in life is how they relate one to another? Educated people high on Maslow's hierarchy have the luxury to figure things out but An "Ordinary People" for the oughts...Who would empathize members of a wealthy white family whose only worry in life is how they relate one to another? Educated people high on Maslow's hierarchy have the luxury to figure things out but can't seem to, leading to an absorbing display of human imperfection and pettiness. Relationships are fragile things no matter what resources one apparently has to bring to bear.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
GregI..Nov 2, 2005
A wonderful, funny, heartbreaking, original film with great performances and masterful direction.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
jimr.Oct 16, 2005
Loved those darn characters.specially that wacky tennis pro. I'd give it an 11 if I could.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
garheardOct 21, 2005
Just because characters don't have the high-gloss sheen of a big-budget flick or lack the bland heroic qualities of typical protagonists doesn't make this a bad flick. To Fantasy and Wendy, I'd encourage you to see something Just because characters don't have the high-gloss sheen of a big-budget flick or lack the bland heroic qualities of typical protagonists doesn't make this a bad flick. To Fantasy and Wendy, I'd encourage you to see something "safe" like Just Like Heaven. For someone interested in real drama, with witty dialogue, flawed characters and a nifty little soundtrack, go watch this movie.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
MarthaR.Dec 24, 2005
A cautionary tale for divorcing parents who consider themselves "intellectual."
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
eleanorjOct 23, 2005
Amazing film. hilarious and heartbreaking. best acting perfomances by JD and LL. rich characters - wanted to see more.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JohnM.Dec 7, 2005
One of my favorite films of the year. Baumbach's brilliantly written characters, every single one with devastating character flaws, are beautifully realized by the actors. A cinematic world I never wanted to leave, everything score with One of my favorite films of the year. Baumbach's brilliantly written characters, every single one with devastating character flaws, are beautifully realized by the actors. A cinematic world I never wanted to leave, everything score with me so perfectly.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
ArnoldP.Oct 29, 2005
A absolutely poignant and so personal account of children reacting to their parents breakup, that is of course flawed, but with an insight that the characters each portray touched me deeeply. It was compelling and painful to watch, sad and A absolutely poignant and so personal account of children reacting to their parents breakup, that is of course flawed, but with an insight that the characters each portray touched me deeeply. It was compelling and painful to watch, sad and funny. Only serious filmgoers fare not a chick-flick or date movie but a well crafted cinematic play bya very talented writer-director.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
ChadS.Jan 13, 2006
"The Squid and the Whale" has a structure that reminds me of "Almost Famous". The great Cameron Crowe film told two stories; how William Miller comes of age, and the death of rock and roll. Noah Baumbach's debut also touches upon the "The Squid and the Whale" has a structure that reminds me of "Almost Famous". The great Cameron Crowe film told two stories; how William Miller comes of age, and the death of rock and roll. Noah Baumbach's debut also touches upon the dire straits that an artform is headed towards, while majestically, scathingly, tells the story of a family that's eviscerated by ego and O.P.P. [***Spoiler***]The key scene is when Bernard(Jeff Daniels) speaks condescendingly about a "popular" novelist he admits is good, but gives the backhanded compliment, for a genre writer. In 1986, this author was well-thought of, but today, his status is one who is thought to be an all-time-great, although his work isn't "serious", like say the work of the late Saul Bellow(whose novel is used as a prop, I think, to serve as a popular/literary novel binary). Bernard Berkman is a writer of well-received novels, but they're too dense, too inaccesible for the hoi polloi, and will soon be forgotten. It's a private joke among literature nuts when he dismisses the author of "The Hot Kid". There is also a connection between the appearance of a certain ABC sitcom that ran from 1977 to 1984, and his inability to be published. If you read the backpage of Entertainment Weekly, the ideological war that Stephen King wages against literary fiction as being elitist, and how he champions writers who have no chance of being shortlisted for the National Book Award, will inform you what this movie is really about. The divorce, the sperm, the Baldwin; that's all smoke and mirrors. The rivalry between the writing Berkmans made me want to re-read Tabitha King's "One on One", a novel every bit as good as some of her husband's work.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
RolandGDec 6, 2006
A troubling and visceral movie that had me squirming all over my seat and peeking through fingers in parts. Uncomfortable to watch with thoroughly unpleasant characters. However overall it was a beautiful and ultimately satisfying piece of A troubling and visceral movie that had me squirming all over my seat and peeking through fingers in parts. Uncomfortable to watch with thoroughly unpleasant characters. However overall it was a beautiful and ultimately satisfying piece of filmmaking which presented the difficulties of dealing with divorce and in particular the enormous difficulties in dealing with narcissistic parents. The acting was first rate. Recommended only if you are able to deal with feeling thoroughly uncomfortable and are able to look deeper than the superficial layers of a movie.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
GregWJan 5, 2006
This was one of the most painfully funny movies I've ever seen. My parents haven't even gone through a divorce, and I related to it. It shows the first time you see your parents as humans, not some drone who is dull and gives you This was one of the most painfully funny movies I've ever seen. My parents haven't even gone through a divorce, and I related to it. It shows the first time you see your parents as humans, not some drone who is dull and gives you rules you don't understand. And Jeff Daniels' performance was nothing short of brilliant.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
GabeR.Jan 5, 2006
Excellent.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
hopeJan 9, 2006
Those who didn't find the movie engaging or realistic make me wonder if they have ever experienced the futility of human error. Yes, some of the character traits are magnified, but they are hand-picked to portray the most unnerving Those who didn't find the movie engaging or realistic make me wonder if they have ever experienced the futility of human error. Yes, some of the character traits are magnified, but they are hand-picked to portray the most unnerving sides of human frailty - and they are disturbingly real. I am actually grateful that some of you think that these characters are shallow and one-dimensional, because it means you've had the good fortune not to come across situations like these! Tight script, raw acting, irritating characters, undeniably real.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
SimonS.Apr 18, 2006
Extremely well made movie. People, if you're going to watch an Indy movie you have to be open minded. Im really amazed it has a really low user rating. The movie deals with flawed human beings (like all of us) and is in a way quite Extremely well made movie. People, if you're going to watch an Indy movie you have to be open minded. Im really amazed it has a really low user rating. The movie deals with flawed human beings (like all of us) and is in a way quite redemptive and accepting. I loved it.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
BradP.Apr 19, 2006
Painful and entertaining - I grew up among some of these people in NY in the '60s, but thankfully my own folks did a much better job. Jeff Daniels is terrific as a middle-aged intellectual utterly trapped by hubris and his past. You Painful and entertaining - I grew up among some of these people in NY in the '60s, but thankfully my own folks did a much better job. Jeff Daniels is terrific as a middle-aged intellectual utterly trapped by hubris and his past. You watch the two boys get endlessly manipulated by the carping parents who use their intelligence only to make matters worse. It highlights the peculiar disconnect between high achievement in one area of life and failure in others; this too I have seen. Beautiful minds with empty hearts. The film ends in the middle, as one reviewer complained - but that is appropriate. There is a lot to come, more than can be put here; and we are left to imagine that for ourselves. I wouldn't be so affected were the portrayals not so dead-on. All 4 primary cast members are superb and disturbed.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
bernier.Apr 9, 2006
Great movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
ChrisL.May 12, 2006
If you can handle the complexities of uncertainty, and if you hold the belief that our lives are never neat and organized and pretty, then you'll appreciate this film. The characters are wonderfully drawn, the core dilemma handled with If you can handle the complexities of uncertainty, and if you hold the belief that our lives are never neat and organized and pretty, then you'll appreciate this film. The characters are wonderfully drawn, the core dilemma handled with equal measures of humour and heartbreaking sentiment, and the ethos created with a light, deft hand. One knock: the mother is not as well drawn as her sons and husband, and though Linney does as much as she can to bring a fullness to this mysterious character, I was left with the niggling suspicion that the director simply did not know her. Otherwise, this is a fine film--unless you like all your loose-ends neatly tied.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DanL.May 4, 2006
Ignore the negative reviews here, this movie is unconventional by modern standards, but it is also moving and incredibly unsettling. The characters are written with haunting honesty, and the story ends on a tragic, yet proper note. I Ignore the negative reviews here, this movie is unconventional by modern standards, but it is also moving and incredibly unsettling. The characters are written with haunting honesty, and the story ends on a tragic, yet proper note. I can't blame people for not getting The Squid and the Whale. When I originally saw it in the theater most people simply gawked at the ending, the truth is, by american cinema standards we (as viewers) are used to having the point driven into our faces with a hammer. We're used to some ridiculously huge monologue, or character change or something, and lets be real, alot of life is painful, alot of life is unresolved, and alot of life is still unknown. The Squid and the Whale captures the pain of that perfectly.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
HalB.Apr 4, 2007
The reviews of Dierdre B (10) and DA Floyd (2) both make excellent points. This is a very good film about the impact of divorce (and narcissism) on children AND it amounts to "self-indulgent scab-ripping"! But how many film-makers can be The reviews of Dierdre B (10) and DA Floyd (2) both make excellent points. This is a very good film about the impact of divorce (and narcissism) on children AND it amounts to "self-indulgent scab-ripping"! But how many film-makers can be said to NOT be self-indulgent in putting their vision, their art, their peronsal stories on the big screen? As to D.A.'s conclusion that there's nothing in this film to "redeem the painful experience", I simply disagree. Even when the topic is painful, good acting and screenwriting and direction can result in a truly remarkable and moving film. And the soundtrack is excellent, to boot.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
DaveNov 16, 2005
I knew Noah Baumbach was destined for great things after seeing "Kicking and Screaming" (no, not the one that was released earlier in the year!!) in the mid 90's. Daniels and Linney were great, as usual, and I agree the kids were also I knew Noah Baumbach was destined for great things after seeing "Kicking and Screaming" (no, not the one that was released earlier in the year!!) in the mid 90's. Daniels and Linney were great, as usual, and I agree the kids were also very good. I can really relate to this film since my parents also divorced. Keep up the good work Noah!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
msNov 24, 2005
Somehow I doubt that those who gave this movie a score lower then a five were looking at all of the aspects of the film as a critic should. Somehow I doubt that they didn't even pay attention to the fact that this is a movie for those Somehow I doubt that those who gave this movie a score lower then a five were looking at all of the aspects of the film as a critic should. Somehow I doubt that they didn't even pay attention to the fact that this is a movie for those who won't squirm in their seats. It's a dramatic film with the darkest of humor and the most tragic of divorces. It realistically captures the fractured aftermath of simmering divorce and how it affects the children of the parents responsible. To those who call the acting amateurish..to shame my friend...to shame. Jeff Daniels gives the performance of the year and probably his career and Laura Linney is a brilliant actress in her own right as well. There is virtually no plot although the story has a ton of substance and was more then enough to keep me in my seat. People have to realize that this story is not about being entertaining...this is artistic but it's like a very acurate portrait. It really made me cry it was so real..I knew families who went through divorces..I knew people who had the same issues with their families...this was just a solidification of my knowledge..a secondary source if you will. It could have been a documentary had it been filmed with actual lives. How people can put this film down with a zero or any red score is absolutely astounding because these are the same people who give Fantastic Four an 8...peace out.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
allyl.Nov 4, 2005
Jeff Daniels and Laura Linney were great as usual but I was really impressed with the kids. They were terrific, not cutesy movie kids. I definitely recommend this movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
JanetteY.Nov 6, 2005
Wow, one of my favorite films of the year! And what an appropriate title to keep me on the track of intrigue, watching the inner and outer battles and struggles each member of a broken home faces. Themes of foolish anger and insecurity Wow, one of my favorite films of the year! And what an appropriate title to keep me on the track of intrigue, watching the inner and outer battles and struggles each member of a broken home faces. Themes of foolish anger and insecurity trumpet from scene to scene. Indeed, a dramatic and psychological thriller that exposes human flaws a bold and unpretentious way.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
BrucutZ.Oct 19, 2005
Sharp and funny movie about four sad and lonely people working through a messy divorce in NYC mid-1980s. It's self-aware enough not to sentimentalize any of the characters, but I ended up with sympathy for each of them...even the sadly Sharp and funny movie about four sad and lonely people working through a messy divorce in NYC mid-1980s. It's self-aware enough not to sentimentalize any of the characters, but I ended up with sympathy for each of them...even the sadly narcissistic whale of a Dad (well-played by Jeff Daniels). He's forced to confront his loneliness and how much he needs his sons' approal, since his life otherwise holds almost nothing. Mom is well-played by Laura Linney, but she's the one underwritten character here (and the only female principal). Anyway, a provocative and bittersweet movie about how smart people can mess up as disasterously as anyone.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
JeremyW.Dec 12, 2005
Not an easy movie to watch, but perhaps, one of the most rewarding of the past year. An often bitingly satirical and anguishing picture which provides a look at the life of a family in the midst of self-destruction and turmoil. Not an easy movie to watch, but perhaps, one of the most rewarding of the past year. An often bitingly satirical and anguishing picture which provides a look at the life of a family in the midst of self-destruction and turmoil. Baumbach's screenplay will get most of the kudos as it richly deserves, but ultimately it is the performances of Linney and Daniels that give the kind of heart-breaking and inspired touch that makes this movie work. Its perhaps the one film this year that pulls no punches in its look at a academic and bohemian lifestyle and how it affects those involved in a family. Interesting from start to finish, you'll leave the theater, not being able to think about anything other than what you've just seen.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
EdK.Dec 13, 2005
Bizarre. Original & creative. Believable. Well-acted. I think those adjectives sum it up. You might love this film, or you might hate it. But if you're into "artsy" kinds of movies, you'll probably love it.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
RobinOct 22, 2005
Intelligent, real, inspired -- a nuanced, orginal take on the ol' growing-up-with-a-screwed-up-family theme, the parents flawlessly portrayed and the kids wholly believable. Gritty yet sympathetic. Wonderful filmmaking.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
bernier.Dec 27, 2005
Great movie.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
jarenm.Oct 24, 2005
This movie has life in it. Complex, heartfelt, quirky, horrifying, loveable, humorous--that which defines family life. A beautiful film. However, if you want over-simplified stories about one-dimensional characters start going to movies with This movie has life in it. Complex, heartfelt, quirky, horrifying, loveable, humorous--that which defines family life. A beautiful film. However, if you want over-simplified stories about one-dimensional characters start going to movies with Wendy and Fantasy.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
SpongeeeDec 4, 2005
I went into the film thinking that it was going to be a yuppy-cliche indie "liberal" film, but instead, I got a heart-felt, greatly crafted, shot, edited, and written film. All the characters draw you in and make you care about the film. I went into the film thinking that it was going to be a yuppy-cliche indie "liberal" film, but instead, I got a heart-felt, greatly crafted, shot, edited, and written film. All the characters draw you in and make you care about the film. Quality film!!! Brotha!!!… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
BobA.Jan 16, 2006
I'll never understand people who hate a movie because the characters are unlikable (I suppose that would also make Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and Citizen Kane bad) as if the point of every movie is to make you like the characters. The I'll never understand people who hate a movie because the characters are unlikable (I suppose that would also make Taxi Driver, Raging Bull, and Citizen Kane bad) as if the point of every movie is to make you like the characters. The story (with its, yes, awful characters) has something truly honest to say.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
9
ChrisM.Jan 22, 2006
If you didn't like it you didn't get it. And that's just kinda too bad.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
D-fiddyMar 24, 2006
I found this movie too be so completely honest and just downright amazing. I found my self entertained throughout and did not want it to end. Ends abruptly, but really wraps it up for you. A must see for any Wes Anderson Fans.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
JenM.Mar 31, 2006
Not for everyone (it's pretty quirky), but I loved it. Brilliant acting, especially Daniels. Despicable character, but painfully realistic.
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
AdamK.Dec 17, 2007
it is hard to describe this movie..not for a couple having a bad week...but a great movie...you are sympathetic to this group but at the same time are kind of bewildered by their behavior. The parents are completely screwed up and they are it is hard to describe this movie..not for a couple having a bad week...but a great movie...you are sympathetic to this group but at the same time are kind of bewildered by their behavior. The parents are completely screwed up and they are passing down their problems to their kids...a great interplay of characters carrying out this story..netflix it.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
10
dadeNov 26, 2006
Moving, troubled and beautiful. I still can't get over the fact that the father was played by the same guy who was forced to lock himself in the bathroom in Dumb and Dumber after accidentally consuming a large amount of laxative. Jeff Moving, troubled and beautiful. I still can't get over the fact that the father was played by the same guy who was forced to lock himself in the bathroom in Dumb and Dumber after accidentally consuming a large amount of laxative. Jeff Daniels was amazing.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful
8
SpangleAug 12, 2016
A powerful look at divorce and its effects on a family, The Squid and the Whale is a decidedly quirky little film from writer/director Noah Baumbach. Interestingly written with captivating characters and terrific performances from JeffA powerful look at divorce and its effects on a family, The Squid and the Whale is a decidedly quirky little film from writer/director Noah Baumbach. Interestingly written with captivating characters and terrific performances from Jeff Daniels, Jesse Eisenberg, and Laura Linney, the film can be quite poignant at times, especially with the children. The difficulty of joint custody and the separation of one's parents is represented here on two very different children. Also interesting is the division between "intellectuals" and "philistines" and their characterization in the film. In many regards, the former are portrayed quite negatively, even being shown as frauds. The latter, though certainly shown derision from the protagonists of the film, are not shown nearly any animosity in their characterization. Very interesting to see characters who seem to have such a negative characterization be the focus. Overall, quirky and wholly indie, The Squid and the Whale is an expertly written film that really hits home from beginning to end.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
ydnar4Jan 29, 2016
Well written and extremely interesting The Squid and the Whale offers a very real look into divorce, an abnormal process that has almost become a normal part of the lives of children. Wes Anderson produces this movie and it is directed and byWell written and extremely interesting The Squid and the Whale offers a very real look into divorce, an abnormal process that has almost become a normal part of the lives of children. Wes Anderson produces this movie and it is directed and by Noah Baumbach. The writing is outstanding. There is never a point where you feel like these characters are not real people and the story is told in a short concise fashion. Running time clocks in at under 90 minutes.This is likely the best role that I have ever seen from Jeff Daniels and Laura Linney is great in the film as well. Jesse Eisenberg continued his rise with a great performance. The Squid and the Whale is unquestionably one of my favorite independent films.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
amheretojudgeMay 9, 2018
mom and me versus you and dad..

The Squid And The Whale It is so fabricated that it has to be realistic and when one achieves that fine line on the horizon and manages to perfectly balance it until the curtain drops there is a catharticmom and me versus you and dad..

The Squid And The Whale It is so fabricated that it has to be realistic and when one achieves that fine line on the horizon and manages to perfectly balance it until the curtain drops there is a cathartic release among viewers which is quite rare to find. Noah Baumbach's writing is way too strong and has enormous potential to be independent of any barring or restrains and floats peculiarly where one cannot move away ones concentration from it. His execution skills are admirable too but might have to work on it a bit more to even match with its astoundingly poetic script. Jeff Daniels has got it covered on "performance" department where Laura Linney and Jesse Eisenberg are supporting him throughout the course of it. The Squid And The Whale is not your typical dysfunctional family genre feature for the places it visits and the range it contains, is something one can't even possibly imagine.… Expand
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
8
Bradh6886Jan 3, 2021
Ain't nothing like a Baumbach script in today's cinema. Romantic and Realist poetry at the same time. Important to see kids as the protagonists of a divorce story, the voices that often go unheard. Film does a lot with a little.
0 of 0 users found this helpful00
All this user's reviews
10
NickTheCritickNov 2, 2021
The movie talks about a divorce seen from the children of the divorcing couple so what we see is filtered through the eyes of a teenager and a child. The movie is beautifully shots, full of heart breaking scenes and raw dialogued in fullThe movie talks about a divorce seen from the children of the divorcing couple so what we see is filtered through the eyes of a teenager and a child. The movie is beautifully shots, full of heart breaking scenes and raw dialogued in full Baumbach's style. This to me remains the best movie that Noah Baumbach has ever made so far and one of the best movies of the last 20 years.… Expand
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