You have seen Joaquin Phoenix get into a dark mode in ‘Joker’ recently but there’s this one lovely film of his from 2021 that will leave an instant smile on your face.
We are talking about ‘C’mon, C’mon’ (currently streaming on Prime Video), a slice of life black and white American drama written and directed by Mike Mills (‘Thumbsuckers’, ‘20th Century Woman’). Other than Phoenix, the film stars Gaby Hoffman, Scoot McNairy, Molly Webster, Jaboukie Young-White and Woody Norman.
‘C’mon, C’mon’, follows Johnny, an emotionally stunted and soft spoken radio journalist who travels the country interviewing a variety of kids about their thoughts concerning their world and their future. Due to certain circumstances he is saddled with caring for his young nephew Jesse. Jesse brings a new perspective and, as they travel from state to state, effectively tunes the emotional tables on Johnny.
The film had a world premiere at the 48th Telluride Film Festival and a very limited theatrical release. It did receive great critical acclaim for the incredible performances, deft direction and amazing cinematography but was a box office failure.
‘C’mon, C’mon’ does not have something big plotwise neither is there any big revelation, if that’s what you are looking for. Instead it’s more about how hard parenting can be and what the characters go through in their lives and how these experiences changes them internally. The film is heartwarming, relatable and has a background music that pleases the ears.
On Rotten Tomatoes, ‘C’mon, C’mon’ has a rating of 94% and the website consensus reads, “The sweet chemistry between Joaquin Phoenix and Woody Norman is complemented by writer-director Mike Mills’ empathetic work, helping C’mon C’mon transcend its familiar trappings.”
If you are looking for a light hearted, feel good slice of life film, then ‘C’mon, C’mon’ on Prime Video should definitely be your pick.
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