The Descendants (2011)

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Director: Alexander Payne

Writers: Alexander Payne and Nat Faxon & Jim Rash, based on the novel by Kaui Hart Hemmings

Stars: George Clooney, Shailene Woodley, Amara Miller, Nick Krause, Beau Bridges, Judy Greer, Matthew Lillard, Robert Forster, Patricia Hastie



Matt King (George Clooney) reconnects with his daughters (Shailene Woodley and Amara Miller) as he tries to process a shocking revelation about his dying wife (Patricia Hastie). 



This quiet film is beautifully acted, effectively portraying the confusion that can result from conflicting emotions. 



At a time when he needs peace and support to help him prepare for the death of his wife, Matt is also exposed to betrayal and the stress of an impending land deal that places the hopes and aspirations of his entire extended family on his shoulders. 



Clooney shows us a man who is stunned, angry, and guilty as he tries to readjust to his new reality. 



The film is full of specific details that make us feel that we are watching real life.

 


The subplot concerning the land deal never really meshed with the rest of the film, causing a key scene near the end to strike a false note, but it's not enough to derail the film.

 

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