There are some big inconsistent swings in this independent film from writer-director Lisa Cholodenko. It ranges from heartfelt relationship drama to light comedy. Most of the time, it works well — only occasionally drifting into the realm of indie-cliches. The strength of the movie lies in the terrific performances from the entire cast.
Annette Bening and Julianne Moore are a married lesbian couple with two teenage children. They all seem to be living a relatively peaceful and normal existence until the kids decide that they would like to find their biological father. Each of the mothers had been artificially inseminated by the same guy, played by Mark Ruffalo. Soon after the initial meeting, he becomes an integral part of this family’s life. However, it all gets a little complicated and his involvement leads to some awkward consequences.
I did find the film to be slightly forced in parts. It can feel like a lesson in “Indie Filmmaking 101″. Still, it manages to avert disaster with terrific acting and a willingness to take risks. “The Kids are All Right” went to places I did not expect it to go. It was daring and original. I doubt anyone will gush over the project as a whole… but there are definitely some worthy aspects worth checking out.
