DIANE KEATON

Bil’s rating (out of 5):  BBBB. 

USA, 1995.  Hollywood Pictures, Roth-Arnold Productions.  Screenplay by Richard LaGravenese, based on the book by Franz Lidz.  Cinematography by Phedon Papamichael.  Produced by Susan Arnold, Bill Badalato, Donna Roth.  Music by Thomas Newman.  Production Design by Garreth Stover.  Costume Design by Jill M. Ohanneson.  Film Editing by Lisa Zeno Churgin.  

Diane Keaton directs this bittersweet tale of a boy growing up under the experience of losing his mother (Andie MacDowell). He finds refuge in the companionship of two positively insane uncles (Maury Chaykin, Michael Richards) who help him deal with his terrible impending loss while his father (John Turturro) is too wrapped in grief over losing the love of his life. MacDowell gives one of her most lyrical performances, a beautiful and sensitive role that will remind us all of a kind of relationship we often take for granted, and her warmth is the big heart and centre of the film. Lovely stuff, well worth a look.

Academy Award Nomination:  Best Original Score-Musical/Comedy

Toronto International Film Festival:  1995