The Descendants

As far as movies are concerned, it's a very happy time of the year for me. Apparently, the studios save the really good movies for the holiday season and the end of the year so that Academy voters will remember the films as they decide who will be nominated for Oscars. To me it means that we will have the opportunity to see some GOOD movies.

The Descendants definitely falls in this category. Admittedly, I would watch just about ANYTHING with George Clooney in it - hey, I would probably watch him brush his teeth if given the opportunity! Even so, he is an exceptional actor and did a fantastic job in this film. I don't remember seeing a movie that he showed this much vulnerability. When he cried, I did, too.

All the actors in this film were good. Besides George, Shailene Woodley really stood out for playing his difficult, foul-mouthed teenage daughter. This is a very honest, emotional movie and some scenes were difficult to watch...for instance, when George's character angrily confronts his comatose wife for her infidelity - he was so upset, I was afraid he might hit her - he did not.

The story is set on some the islands of Hawaii - Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island so there are some beautiful scenes which make an interesting backdrop for this story. It's hard to describe this movie - it's not a feel good story, but there are many funny moments. It's not quite a tragic story, but there are obviously some very sad situations in it. It's all very touching and real.

My bottom line - I loved it and I heartily recommend it.