"Little Miss Sunshine" is the brightest film this year.

Rating: 10/10 (16 September 2006)

"Little Miss Sunshine" is the brightest film so far this year. It is a comedy that had me laughing and crying simultaneously. Abigail Breslin plays Olive, the charming daughter of a most dysfunctional family. Dr. Phil would be extremely challenged by this group. Greg Kinnear does another masterful job in his portrayal of an inspirational speaker, Richard, with somewhat less talent at accomplishing this feat at home. He is perfect in this part. Paul Dano plays Dwayne, the silent brother who is rebellious and introspective nearly throughout the whole movie. His Tee shirt is a scream, and his silence is golden. Toni Collette plays Sheryl, Richard's wife, and she too gives an outstanding performance. Alan Arkin is perfect in his portrayal of the Grandpa with a spark for his granddaughter's talent, yet an extremely comical attitude that permeates his character in his inimical way. Lastly, Uncle Frank is played by Steve Carell, a suicidal, gay man who is brilliant and intense in his role. Don't miss this sun-shining film. It is masterfully done and will grab your heart and your funny bone at the same time.