A funny, charming road movie

Rating: 9/10 (16 February 2008)

"Little Miss Sunshine" tells the story of a dysfunctional family's trek across America in order for their youngest child to take part in a beauty pageant. The movie strikes that rare perfect balance between comedy and drama. The situations are comedic but the characters have actual depth, meaning that they aren't just one-dimensional butts of jokes.
This mix is especially impressive since the film-makers are relative newcomers. This is the Michael Arndt's first writing credit and the co-director's (Dayton & Faris) experience comes mainly in the field of music videos. If they keep producing work of this calibre, though, it won't be the last we'll hear of them.
The cast here is quite an impressive ensemble. Each family member is markedly different and no-one is left without sufficient character development. Normally I'm not much of a fan of Greg Kinnear but he really nailed this role. Arkin & Collette I expected to be good (and was proved right) but I was really impressed with Abigail Breslin. She exudes a realistic mix of childish enthusiasm and insecurity. I can't remember the last time I saw an actor/actress with this much poise at such a young age.
The script is often funny but has several serious or heartwarming moments as well. Now, when I say heartwarming I mean genuinely heartwarming, not relying on schmaltzy Hollywood emotional manipulation. Throughout the course of the film we begin to really care about these characters. The ending will leave you smiling and pondering the differences that divide us and the bonds that unite us.
All in all, a highly recommended comedy, though certainly not meant for the kids, despite the subject matter. (Note that while I must admit that the film's quirkiness factor is pretty high, the characters are played with such conviction that none of the portrayals ring false.)