Little Miss Sunshine

Once every few years it happens that an inconspicuous film unexpectedly hits a golden vein in the form of great audience interest and favourable critical response, but at the same time the buzz and the aura of "wonderful comedy" created around it far outweighs its real value. Recent examples include My Big Fat Greek Wedding and now Little Miss Sunshine, the most overrated comedy of recent years. A pleasantly tedious 97 minutes, with completely banal humour, a few blatant constructs (the somewhat belated discovery of colour blindness) and one of the most incomprehensible Oscar nominations for Alan Arkin as a cackling grandfather. An over-hyped affair that will certainly not become a classic in the future. The dance of the cute Abigail Breslin won’t save it. (25/02/2007)

A very satisfying and original family drama with a charming humorous side and six well-written characters, whose disparity and forced coexistence is the dominant element of the narrative. The simple story doesn't stand out from other crazy road movies, but thanks to the imaginative direction and the excellent performances of all the cast, it delivers such an endearing and non-violent picture of life's little escapades that you just can't resist devouring it whole. Kinnear is already a household name and the role of the uptight father suited him perfectly, Carell surprised me again and confirmed his considerable acting talent, and the veteran Alan Arkin is simply flawless. They all work impressively well and, together with the smart script, they made an impressive film, unforgettable despite its naivety and absurdity... 80% (30/03/2013)

This is the kind of classic inconspicuous film where interesting actors come together to play even more fascinating roles. Especially Steve Carell fascinates me in similar roles. It's entertaining, it's playful, at times it's crazy, sometimes hard to believe, but together it forms a great whole. And yet, it's actually "just" a road movie. A beautiful example of how something beautiful can have a very diverse form. (01/04/2014)

A similar "sensation" as, for example, Sideways. Meaning a slightly bitter in places, but mostly reliable comedy, where either love adventures or family troubles are dealt with. The filmmakers cannot be denied a flair for situational humour and solid dialogue, as well as well-drawn characters, mostly well acted. It’s nothing groundbreaking or revolutionary for the genre, but it delivers solid entertainment with one American redneck family. (20/04/2023)

Definitely one of the most successful road movies of all time. There are few movie scenes that I can't and won't stop laughing at. One of them is the "stage one" from Little Miss Sunshine. Abigail Breslin is incredible! But other than that scene, there are unfortunately too many dry spots for the movie to make 100%. (20/07/2011)