Lars and the Real Girl

“Lars and the Real Girl” is one of the quirkiest films of this year. Unique and at sometimes utterly bizarre this film definitely has something for everyone.

We meet Lars Lindstrom (Gosling) who seems to have a few relationship phobias, and although sweet and harmless, his social skills are far from up to scratch. He soon begins to show reclusive tendencies until a woman turns up at his door. She happens to be a “Real Doll”, a sex doll designed to look as real life as possible, which he has purchased from the internet. However, Lars’ interest in her is quite the opposite of sexual. His family and friends are horrified to find that Lars treats her as if she were human, even calling her Bianca and making up a life for her. After a psychiatrist informs them he is suffering from a delusion, she encourages his local community to go along with him until he figures out his issues.

Reasonably new to the big screen, Craig Gillespie captures this very funny and interesting story in a very skilled manner and it is quite an improvement from his previous film, “Mr. Woodcock”. Everything down to the costume is absolutely perfect, and the cast has been carefully chosen to ensure the warmth and charm of the film is captured and juxtaposed against the utter weirdness. It is odd, but believable and sensitive enough to achieve empathy from the audience immediately.

Ryan Gosling uses his acting experience gained from films such as “The Notebook” and “Half Nelson” effectively to psychoanalyse his quirky and complicated character, and pull off the awkward nature of Lars. Empire magazine reports that his dedication to method acting ended in his sleeping on the set of his character’s apartment at night. His performance is absolutely riveting and is complimented by the excellent performances from Emily Mortimer and Paul Schneider, who play Lars’ brother and sister-in-law.

Overall this film is funny, quirky and effortlessly adorable, all at the same time. If you’re in the mood for something with a genuine charm and depth, and a little quirk on the side, this film is a must-see!

Rachael Pilson-Wood