Lars and the Real Girl

Imari Palma
UNST 101
Pastor Sam
2/8/10

Review

"Lars and the Real Girl" was directed Craig Gillespie. The main character Lars, played by Ryan Gosling, plays a character who is strange, but likable. He is not "normal" according to standards of society. He prefers isolation, keeping to himself, and has a high regard and care for the people he loves. The reason Lars purchases this sex-doll is not really disclosed in the film, but the way he treats it is very unusual. Never for a second does Lars treat her like a doll. She was real to him, he respected her, took her to the doctor, and made her feel comfortable.

Lars' brother and sister in law are very concerned for his well-being, but go along with Lars' fantasy, following the Psychologist's instructions. I was expecting the people of the small community to shun Lars and gossip about how strange his is, making his situation more sad and desperate. Although, the community did the exact opposite. They welcomes Bianca, the sex doll, with open arms, caring for her, allowing her to attend church, giving her a "job," and treating her like a real person for the well-being of Lars.

The love in this movie unforgettable. One of my favorite scenes on the movie is when Lars becomes angry and goes on a rampage chopping wood and hos sister-in-law comes outside to talk to him. They get into a heated brawl and she lets her feelings show. When Lars tells her that "no one cares," she becomes infuriated and tells him the reality of the situation and that everyone is bending over backwards for Lars because they love him.

The acting in this film was very well done. Every person had their own distinct character that added to the drama, comedy, and intensity of the movie. It is sad to know that there are people who are like Lars, but comforting to know that there are also people that love them and care for them and will never give up on them.

I didn't really see Jesus in any particular character, per say. I did see a community that pulled together to help one person. It's like the parable Jesus told of the shepherd leaving the 99 sheep to find the one lost one. It isn't quite the same, but everyone else dropped whatever they were doing and did whatever they could to help one person, Lars, showing the character of Christ.