I was a little torn while debating what genre this movie was prior to seeing it. I had no clue what to expect between a comedy or a sob story drama, but it wan’t quite either. I of course would lean it more toward a comedy, as apparently that is what it was intended to be.
Whatever genre this movie was, it’s a hit.
I’m going to start with the cast, because that is more than likely the sole reason I loved this movie so much, along with the perfect story-line, script, and the rest of the movie.
CAST:
Mark Wahlberg as Pete: Mark Wahlberg was already one of my favorite actors of all time, but this movie only made me fall in love with him more. He shows both his loving father side, as he does in every other movie he’s in, but also shows his absolute knee-slapping hilarious side. He makes this movie what it is, I wouldn’t doubt that this role was written specifically for him, he is absolutely incredible, but what’s new?
Rose Byrne as Ellie: Who else would play a mom in a comedy? Her character is the exact same as her role in the Neighbors movies, except a lot more appropriate. She shows her loving, nurturing mom side along with her comedic side along with Wahlberg. The two are the perfect comedy couple in every way and I absolutely loved Rose in this role of the over the top, slightly confused, comedic, and perfect mom.
Isabela Moner as Lizzy: Lizzy’s character was written to be fairly unlikeable, only because of what all she and her siblings have been through in the system. Moner plays Lizzy with all of the right emotions at the right time. Although Lizzy definitely was not my favorite character, Moner was perfect casting.
Julianna Gamiz as Lita: Gamiz is an absolute STAR! Lita was definitely my favorite character in this movie. The role was definitely written for a cute and funny kid, and Gamiz is exactly that. Her comedic timing is impeccable and she is as cute as can be.
Honorable Mentions: Of course Octavia Spencer as Karen was hilarious as always. Gustavo Quiroz as Juan, the third child, was extremely funny and sweet.
PLOT: If you hadn’t heard about this movie, it is about a couple that decides that they want to home and maybe adopt a foster child. They decide that they want to adopt a teenager, without knowing that she comes with two siblings. The rest of the movie is about the struggles they face while housing the foster children, getting to know them, debating whether or not they want to adopt, and all of the rest of the struggles they faced throughout the whole process. As I previously said, it is a comedy mixed with a little drama and it is done so well.
This movie was incredibly eye-opening to how hard it is to go through the foster adoption process. Also to how many children are in foster care and how many struggles they have to face daily. I’ve known some parents that have tried to adopt their foster children and I never realized how hard it must be! This is an incredible movie to go see with the family, especially during the holidays to really focus on how blessed and thankful we all are!
This movie is rated PG-13, but for language. So if your 10-12 year old is mature enough to handle the language, go see it with them. I loved this movie, I loved that it made me laugh, I loved that it made me cry, I love Mark Wahlberg, and I love what this movie stands for. This is definitely a must-see in theaters for the year!
RATING: 90%