Junebug

It isn't without its flaws but I think Junebug is worth investigating. A little confounding in spots: Some of the directorial flourishes --maybe it's a North Carolina thing. It may also be overly ambitious and too long or overstuffed for what you're actually left with in the end. Which is...what exactly? Individually some of the scenes are super but together. Hmmm. Even though I don't think the film is entirely successful it's definitely its own thing. And that's always a good thing. Particularly for a debut film. So kudos to first time creative team, director Phil Morrison and writer Angus Maclachlan. They're two to watch.

The cast is good too. I will talk about my husband Allesandro Nivola at some later date. I promise. Amy Adams is getting most of the critical attention and has the most endearing character. I also can't neglect mentioning that Celia Weston (Far From Heaven, In the Bedroom) who plays the mother Peg continues to be one of the most perfect character actresses out there, a sturdy secret weapon for filmmakers. (B)