(released 2011)

“The Descendants” is directed by Alexander Payne and stars George Clooney, Shailene Woodley, Beau Bridges, Judy Greer and Robert Forster. It was nominated for several Oscars including best picture, best film editing, best director, best actor and best adapted screenplay. It also won an Academy Award and two Golden Globes.It takes place on the beautiful island of Hawaii and tells the story of a wealthy land owner and his family from an unexaggerated perspective. This endears us to the family in spite of all their acting up and faults.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWHNXJ1K4yA

Matt King, played by George Clooney, is a sensible character who is hit with the shock of his wife being in a serious boat accident and her infidelity. His eldest daughter Alex, played by Shailene Woodley, copes by engaging in self-destructive behavior. In the background is a land deal that could make him and his extended family very rich. It is important to mention that he is the only member of his family that has managed his money well. So his extended family really wants him to sell the land to the developers.

This is partially a father daughter tale where Matt is a bit overwhelmed by everything, including his developing relationship with his eldest daughter. Alex is angry and not willing to accept all that is happening. It is clear that Matt has his hands full with his daughters. The main quality of this movie is that you care about the welfare of the characters. I found myself rooting for Matt throughout the movie realizing that he is a flawed character like his wife. I imagine him to be self-absorbed but meticulous, frugal but responsible in financial matters and distant but concerned in emotional matters. As many good character driven stories Matt struggles with the uncomfortable, neglected parts of his life. How he deals with his problems is what endears him to us.

I really enjoyed this film because the characters were likeable and not exaggerated. This movie is funny with an enjoyable story. The viewers will find themselves emotionally invested in the characters and curious how the story develops.
This film was the best film of 2011 and is definitely worth seeing and owning.

(commentary by  www.ink2quill.com  )

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