A Closer Look at “Everything’s Going to Be Great”: A Unique, Yet Flawed Tale
An Unforgettable Title with a Forgettable Journey
“Everything’s Going to Be Great.” Such a title might initially spark optimism, but it quickly proves to be a misfit for the film it represents. This movie is not exactly a hearty invitation, rather a vague promise that feels untrustworthy from the get-go. Set in 1989, the narrative unfolds around a family of four perpetually on the move in their worn-down station wagon, all thanks to the parents’ ambition as regional theater producers. But isn’t regional theater meant to be local? This fuzzy premise is one of many inconsistencies that detracts from the overall experience.
A Family from Different Realms
Each member of the Smart family feels as though they’ve stepped out of distinct films. Buddy Smart, played by the ever-charming Bryan Cranston, embodies the dreamer archetype with a theatrical flair. He’s a whimsical visionary dressed in outdated jackets, fervently proclaiming, “We are so rich in so many ways,” even as financial troubles loom. His carefree attitude and peculiar mustache echo his inner carny-barker spirit—yet one can’t help but wonder how he manages to keep optimism afloat amid an unstable family life.
Clashing Ideologies
The contrast between Buddy and his wife, Macy (the brilliant Allison Janney), is palpable. Coming from Kansas, Macy reflects the conservative small-town values she’s fought to maintain, often leading to quarrels over their financial struggles. Their rapid romance, where they wed just a week after meeting, begs the question: How did these two fascinatingly different people end up together?
Sibling Dynamics: Theatrical Dreams vs. Real-World Adversities
Their sons present another layer to this already complex narrative. Les (Benjamin Evan Ainsworth) is exuberantly theatrical, proudly gay, and finds solace in imaginary conversations with iconic figures from theater history. He tackles not just the trials of adolescence, but also the stark homophobia of Middle America during the late ’80s. In essence, one could argue that a film focusing solely on Les’s coming-of-age journey would be far more compelling, capturing the essence of youth and self-discovery.
On the flip side, Les’s brother Derrick (Jack Champion) is an archetypal jock—handsome and indifferent to the arts. This sharp contrast creates a glaring divide that feels too exaggerated for reality, reminiscent of a traditional sitcom rather than an authentic family drama.
A Wobbly Journey Through Quirkiness
“Everything’s Going to Be Great” presents itself as a quirky indie film, yet it struggles to transition from amusing to profound. The comedic elements, like early morning bagpipe practices in their suburban neighborhood, leave one pondering the film’s authenticity. With cringe-worthy sing-alongs and over-the-top humor, the film appears more as a collection of amusing sketches rather than a cohesive narrative.
A Not-So-Subtle Inspiration
The film’s attempts to channel the charm of “Little Miss Sunshine” fall flat. Directed by Jon S. Baird, with a script by Steven Rogers—known for works as varied as “I, Tonya” and cheesy 90s flicks–the movie feels uneven. Its collection of half-baked plot arcs and ideas lacks the cohesive brilliance one hopes for.
Performances Worth Mentioning
Despite the script’s flaws, Bryan Cranston’s portrayal captures Buddy’s larger-than-life personality, drawing both laughter and sympathy. Conversely, Janney masterfully navigates her role as Macy, embodying warmth and bitterness with equal finesse. Yet, as their story unfolds—leading them back to Kansas and into the arms of Macy’s estranged brother (Chris Cooper)—the narrative slips into increasingly improbable territory. Audiences may find it difficult to suspend disbelief as financial logic takes a backseat to melodrama.
Conclusion: A Quirky, Yet Unsatisfactory Experience
“Everything’s Going to Be Great” invites viewers into a uniquely chaotic, if not entirely fulfilling, world. With characters that resonate yet confuse, and moments that inspire laughter perhaps more than reflection, this film is an earnest attempt at storytelling that ultimately stumbles. While the film preaches optimism, it’s clear that not everything about this journey is quite so great.
Explore more about family dynamics and theater’s portrayal in film by visiting CinemaBlend or delve into the intricacies of indie filmmaking at IndieWire.
