Even better the second time

Rating: 10/10 (25 August 2006)

I have to say that this was one of the best movies I have seen all year. I first saw it at the Sundance Film Festival, at our local Ogden UT theater. The theater was full (including a row of small children behind me...I have to wonder when people will learn that unrated does not mean G rated. This movie is entirely inappropriate for children, as it deals with suicide, drug use, pornography, plus it's full of the "F-bomb".) Anyway, I just love the way the filmmakers illustrate the absurdity and in appropriateness of children's pageants, all the while affirming the importance of family. It did get a little silly in the middle with an homage to National Lampoon, but it was underplayed, and didn't ruin the film for me as it did for a couple of reviewers.
So, August 25, this film finally came to our local theaters, which is slightly ironic as I first saw it right here in our town during Sundance. People will support those movies during the festival, but when indies are released they don't often get to our town. At all! At least this one finally got here (only a MONTH after its release elsewhere). But I digress. I have to say that this held up for the second viewing. I enjoyed it as much as I did the first time and heard a lot of lines that I missed the first time, as everyone was laughing so hard that much of the dialog was drowned out. Unfortunately, the theater was nearly empty (actually, I personally prefer it this way, but I know movies won't make money on empty theaters) today. I hope business picks up, but around here, many of the "masses" won't see an R rated movie, regardless of WHY it was rated R. (sigh) Anyway, GO SEE THIS MOVIE, adult types. You'll enjoy it.