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Capsule Legacy

Kicking and Screaming (1995)

Grant’s favorite movie. Definitely need to rewatch.

Really dug it, first time the whole Gen X brainy slacker thing has really clicked for me. I was astonished to find Olivia d’Abo very winsome and adorable when she was such a weak point on the show The Wonder Years.

Great dialogue, and the emotional impact of the split timeline is really strong, although some moments are disposable and only “funny-ish”


Jan. 2022 update:

A terrific movie to rewatch. I still don’t quite click with every beat or gag, and the leads never quite escape same-ish blur of pretentious tics and childish impulses (which I know is part of the point), but it has a real voice to it.

The scenes with Jane — almost a symbol of a romantic past and uncertain future — are far and away the best part of the movie. They also elevate the rest of the material, giving some thematic purpose to the bumbling hangout scenes as a purgatory.

The bittersweet, self-aware ending — both the airport monologue and the exchange with Jane — is perfect.

Is It Good?

Very Good (6/8)

Note: This capsule review was originally published elsewhere. If I watch this movie again, I might expand this to a full-length review.


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