Bryan Cranston and Benjamin Evan Ainsworth in Jon. S. Baird’s ‘Everything’s Going to Be Great’ Photo: Lionsgate.
Rating: 6.5 out of 10
Overview of ‘Everything’s Going to Be Great’
Set to hit theaters on June 20th, ‘Everything’s Going to Be Great’ paints a delightful picture of a family whose lives unfold behind the curtains of a local Ohio theatre. This engaging narrative weaves together themes of ambition, family dynamics, and nostalgia.
Directed by the talented Jon S. Baird—known for his work on the edgy police comedy ‘Filth’—the film showcases the impressive talents of Bryan Cranston, Allison Janney, and rising star Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, among others.
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Initial Impressions
Benjamin Evan Ainsworth in Jon. S. Baird’s ‘Everything’s Going to Be Great’ Photo: Lionsgate.
Your heart will swell for the Smart family in this charming comedy-drama. As they navigate the ups and downs of theatrical life, this narrative infused with coming-of-age misadventures and familial tensions invites viewers to reflect on their own dreams and aspirations. Director Jon S. Baird’s fresh approach adds a unique flavor to a familiar genre, making for a memorable experience.
Script and Direction
Allison Janney and Chris Cooper in Jon. S. Baird’s ‘Everything’s Going to Be Great’ Photo: Lionsgate.
With a career spanning decades, screenwriter Steven Rogers brings a wealth of experience to the script. While his previous works, like ‘I, Tonya’ and ‘Hope Floats’, left a mark on the cinematic landscape, this latest offering feels somewhat lacking in vibrancy. Though it features a mix of amusing scenes and touching moments, the narrative occasionally stumbles, not quite reaching the potential implicit in its premise.
The film follows Buddy (Bryan Cranston), the enthusiastic family patriarch wrestling with his ambitions, while youngest son Lester (Benjamin Evan Ainsworth) grapples with fitting in at middle school. Meanwhile, older brother Derrick (Jack Champion) yearns for normalcy as he juggles his school life against the family’s theatrical backdrop. Adding depth to the dynamic is Macy (Allison Janney), who fears she lacks the same passion for theatre as her husband and seeks solace in religion.
Without revealing too much, a major turning point introduces unexpected challenges for the Smart family, igniting emotional stakes that propel the story forward. However, Baird’s style remains largely subdued, failing to elevate the visual storytelling to match the eclectic nature of its characters.
Cast and Performances
Allison Janney in Jon. S. Baird’s ‘Everything’s Going to Be Great’ Photo: Lionsgate.
In the role of Buddy, Bryan Cranston shines as the lovable yet flawed theatre producer, bringing both enthusiasm and depth to a character whose dreams may have hit roadblocks but whose spirit remains undeterred. His interactions with Janney and the rest of the cast breathe life into the familial struggles.
As Macy, Janney brings grace and nuance to the character, infusing emotional weight into her comedic moments and grounding the narrative. Benjamin Evan Ainsworth, as Lester, balances the duality of youthful dreams against the reality of adolescence in the 1980s, delivering a solid performance without overshadowing his character’s complexities.
Jack Champion steers clear of typical big brother stereotypes and instead establishes a refreshingly authentic sibling relationship with Ainsworth. Chris Cooper’s portrayal of Macy’s brother, though limited in scope, adds a layer of familial tension, while Simon Rex delivers commendable support as Kyle, introducing friction into the family dynamic.
Final Thoughts
Jack Champion in Jon. S. Baird’s ‘Everything’s Going to Be Great’ Photo: Lionsgate.
While ‘Everything’s Going to Be Great’ might not set the box office ablaze or etch itself into cultural memory, it offers a blend of humor and heart that makes for an enjoyable viewing experience. The stellar cast, interspersed with memorable moments and touching interactions, yields a film that, while perhaps not groundbreaking, still resonates on a heartfelt level.
“(until then, act like it is)”
1 hr 35 min
Jun 20th, 2025
There’s no business like show business — for Buddy and Macy Smart (Primetime Emmy® winner Bryan Cranston and Oscar® winner Allison Janney) that means an unpredictable journey…
What’s the Story of ‘Everything’s Going to Be Great’?
As the Smart family wrestles with their oversized dreams, they come to realize that the struggle to find your voice and place in the world knows no age.
Who is in the Cast of ‘Everything’s Going to Be Great’?
- Allison Janney as Macy Smart
- Bryan Cranston as Buddy Smart
- Benjamin Evan Ainsworth as Lester Smart
- Jack Champion as Derrick Smart
- Chris Cooper as Walter
- Simon Rex as Kyle
- Jessica Clement as Selena Roach
- Mark Caven as Noël Coward
- Laura Benanti as Tallulah Bankhead
Poster for ‘Everything’s Going to be Great’. Photo: Lionsgate.
