"Life isn't just death. Don't ignore the living"; that is the lesson that lies at the heart of 1991's My Girl. At once a quirky slice of life story and a compelling coming of age drama My Girl captures the joys and pain of growing up with a wit, warmth, and honesty that is too often missing in family films. The film relates vital lessons for young viewers with a nostalgia that will leave adults longing for the lazy summers of childhood. Soak up some sunshine on a cloudy day with My Girl.
The story begins with eleven year old Vada Sultenfuss living with her widowed father, Harry, and ailing grandmother. The absence of her deceased mother, her grandmother's mental deterioration, and her experiences growing up above her father's funeral parlor leave Vada living in the constant shadow of death. As a coping mechanism, she develops hypochondria and a morbid sensibility that makes it difficult for her to relate to children her own age. She finds solace in her friendship with neighbor Thomas J Sennett and a crush on her teacher, Mr. Bixler. In the summer of 1972, however, change arrives in the form of her father's new mortician, sultry cosmetologist Shelley. While Harry and Shelley embark upon a tentative romance, Vada struggles with growing pains. As the summer unfolds she learns painful lessons in love and loss as she makes the difficult journey from childhood to adolescence.
My Girl relates a familiar tale of the trials and triumphs of growing up with an originality and authenticity that sets it apart from other coming of age dramas. The film follows in the footsteps of such classics as Stand By Me through its depiction of childhood friendship, first crushes, and creative passions. The film adds a twist, however, by relating these milestones of life through the lens of mortality. As a result, the film highlights the importance of savoring each step of life's journey and bracing every moment with those you love. Through its depiction of loss the film teaches young viewers about death and offers vital lessons in coping that will resonate with viewers of any age. Even as it tackles difficult topics, the film maintains a warmth, humor, and hope that amplify its central message that life is for the living and is meant to be truly lived. Relive the laughter, love, and loss of growing up with My Girl.
The film brilliantly brings the by turns offbeat, heartbreaking, and ultimately inspiring story to life thanks to the work of its cast. Griffin Dunne conveys intellect and charm as Vada's crush and teacher, Mr. Bixler. Ann Nelson uncannily portrays the ravaging impact of Alzheimer's Disease as Vada's ill grandmother, Gramoo. Richard Masur provides vital comic relief as Vada's womanizing uncle, Phil. Dan Aykroyd shows his full acting range as he brings overworked and world weary Harry to life. Jamie Lee Curtis is a delight as she infuses Shelley with warmth and quirky charm. Maculey Culkin reminds viewers that he's more than just Kevin McCallister and turns in a performance as Vada's devoted best friend Thomas J. that is certain to leave viewers reaching for their tissues. Even in the midst of an outstanding ensemble cast the film belongs to Anna Chlumsky in what is easily one of the most complex, believable, and ultimately memorable children's performances in modern cinema.
At once refreshingly original and entirely universal this coming of age story will resonate with all who are familiar with the pain and beauty of growing up. Through its intelligent and heartfelt script the film relates difficult lessons in love and loss with gentle humor and offbeat charm. The excellent performances bring each of the film's characters to unique and vibrant life. Join Vada and Thomas J for a summer to remember in My Girl.
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