This film was an absolute surprise to me. I was expecting a 'rain man' esque film with Leo & Depp. But instead, it's a pretty fascinating story about a guy dealing with his family’s problems. (Depp)

This film had me as soon as I realized this aspect. It strangely connected with me in a personal way, that I wasn't expecting at all. I grew up hating my family (and myself) and I was constantly embarrassed by them (and myself) and the film really dives into these themes and emotions hard through Gilbert Grape (Depp).

I will say that the film does feel odd at times, and it has aged quite a bit. The score especially has aged like rotten milk, it constantly undermined the scenes for me with that typical 90's piano template. Ughhh.

Visually the film has some quirks as well with odd choices (and a few good ones). The editing is also strange at times, with multiple fades to black between many scenes.

But one thing that hasn't aged poorly are the performances. Leo truly was a fucking star back in the day. This is probably the earliest of his work that I have seen, but damn, he delivers the most accurate and believable performance of a kid who I believe is on the autistic spectrum to date. I was shocked by all the small ticks and the varying vocal performance he gave. (My young nephew is on the spectrum, and I swear at times Leo literally re-enacted exact moments that I've seen)

Depp also keeps up by giving a great subdued performance of his character. It's amazing seeing Depp being a normal human acting withdrawn and hopeless.

Also, John C. Reily is in this film, and I got so damn happy when he was on screen.

I won't spoil any specific moments, which they are quite a few. But the film has this great novel-like unwinding to it, where things continue to spiral out of control and events feel altogether inevitable but also surprising.

This is based on a book (so no surprise on that it feels like one, but most adaptations lose that feeling) I can't wait to dig into the novel.

So anyway, I'd recommend this film to anyone. Especially if you grew up thinking you didn't have the best family.

So, in ending

8/10 – Great

A surprisingly good film about family and the issues and complications that can bring. Wonderful performances by Leo and Depp and some heartfelt moments. The age of the film does show and not in the best of ways.