Movie Review: Lars and the Real Girl

Ryan Gosling (Canadian, The Notebook) plays Lars, a shy guy who lives in the garage beside his house where his brother Gus (Paul Schneider, The Family Stone) and his wife Karin (Emily Mortimer, Match Point).

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The reason for Lars' shyness is his father. Lars and Gus' mother died while giving birth to Lars. Gus left after school and Lars was stuck with his depressed father. This had such an effect on Lars that he avoids human touch.

Including that of Margo (Kelli Garner, The Aviator) a girl vying for Lars' attention. Lars decides to buy a "human doll" to be his companion. This of course shocks Gus and Karin who decide to take him to be checked out by Dr. Dagmar (Patricia Clarkson, Green Mile) who delves into Lars' mind and tries to help him.

Gosling does an amazing job as Lars. I got a feeling that when ever Lars talked to the doll, that that was what Lars wanted in a relationship. Clarkson is wonderful as the doctor. There aren't any cheap laughs. And the ending is great and the movie feels genuine throughout.

Acting: 10/10
Story: 9/10
Atmosphere: 9/10
Overall: 9/10
Rated: 14-A (ONT) PG-13 (USA)

P.S. Both Garner and Mortimer are "cute as buttons" in this movie.