Wow, this is a REALLY bad movie!

I really wanted to like this movie. I feel terribly cynical trashing it, and that's why I'm giving it a middling 5. Actually, I'm giving it a 5 because there were some superb performances.

While it doesn't offer any answers, it both thrills and makes you think.

It is a whirlwind of delight --- attractive actors, stunning couture, spectacular sets and outrageous parties. It's a feast for the eyes. But what really makes this dramedy work is the acting.

I absolutely loved this movie. It is heartwarming. It leaves a bright feeling afterwards even though the major topic might seem quite upsetting. I think it is a great directorial debut of Jennifer Morrison. Beautiful cinematography, the cast fits perfectly! Melissa Benoist, Michael Angarano, and of course Oscar-winning Allison Janney got my attention from the very beginning. It is a beautiful story about persistence, dedication, and desire to help people. I wish there were more movies like this.

6/1/18. This movie took awhile to find its center. But, if you stay with this you will find that the main character, Ned Chipley, played by Angarano, is a young man with special needs. Because the viewer does not know this, it is easy, given today's climate of terrorism, to feel a rising alarm as to what Ned is trying to do with his life. Misunderstanding ensues, and havoc breaks loose. This is more of a dark comedy about the importance to dealing with people with special needs in an appropriate way to avoid problems. Of course, having Alison Janney playing the mother makes this worth watching.

To take such a subject and successfully walk the fine line all the way from 'endearing' to 'heartwarming' without once raising my cynical hackles, is an accomplishment. Like stepping into a wading pool and finding out it has a deep end. Good production; good script; good performances, though the lead actress never quite convinced me that she was as 'dim' as the role called for. A mere quibble.

I just watched this films premier at Austin Film Festival and have to say I was really impressed. Jennifer has proved herself to be a very capable and impressive director and I will be eager to see where she goes next as a director. I went in knowing next to nothing about this film because it does not yet have a published trailer (very unfortunate) - however I took a chance on it because it sounded like an interesting story and I like many of the people involved in the film. I was blown away. The acting was amazing from seasoned veterans and the pace, music and feel of the movie was really captivating. I have no doubt this this movie will find its way to the big screen soon and when it does - be sure to put it on your list.This movie has some great comedic moments and I loved seeing the world through this simple-minded characters eyes. Feel-good movie of the year! *****-Hunter