Away We Go (on DVD) - 3 out of 4 Stars

Who Would Love This Movie: People who like indie romances

Best Mood to Walk In With: Laid back

Don't See This Movie If: You want something fast-paced or unrealistic

Sadly, I missed this critically acclaimed indie when it appeared in art house theaters and had to wait for Away We Go to arrive on DVD. Although it proved to be an original and entertaining movie, I did not find it to be the best film of the year. While last year's indie smash Juno was fast paced and sarcastically witty, this film is much more realistic and finds humor in the every day ridiculousness.

You never know what to expect out of Sam Mendes content-wise, but no matter the story, you know you get quality. American Beauty showed us the depravity of the suburbs, Road to Perdition focused on revenge, Jarhead took us to war, Revolutionary Road exposed a self-destructive marriage...Surprisingly, Away We Go shows us the beauty of the ordinary and the freedom of creating our own life. Is this a turning point for Mendes? It's doubtful. Instead, I believe his array of works just shows that every thorn has its rose as well.

John Krasinski and Maya Rudolph are cast well, but it is Maggie Gyllenhaal I fell in love with. Toni Collette had originally been slated in the role of LN, and although Collette is brilliant, the role was perfect with Gyllenhaal. Tons of big names cameo, Catherine O'Hara, Jeff Daniels, Allison Janey...the normal cast of quirky characters in a movie about misfits.

Please Don't Miss: It may seem like an excellent bathroom break when the couple enters the hotel, but the scene with the kid talking about babies is hilarious.

You're Sure To Laugh When: Gyllenhaal's explanation of why she dislikes strollers.

All in all, Away We Go is fun, but fluffy. Not a bad way to spend an otherwise uneventful evening, but certainly not something that can't wait.

Movies Are Life. ~ K