As They Made Us

This film is rife with poorly developed characters and cheezy, cloying script. I tried to watch it longer based on these positive reviews, but I am choking on the cheeziness. Give it a miss.

First off, I am not a Mayim Bialik fan, as a person. But that has nothing to do with her talent in the writing, directing, producing area of this film. I am glad I didn't know it was so much her when I started to watch it - otherwise I am afraid my prejudices against her would have kept me from viewing a really good movie.

This is about the complexity of a messed up family - and what family isn't totally messed up? And this family has made it an art form.

It has 2 great actors, Dustin Hoffman and the ever surprising Candice Bergen and a further ensemble of younger ones orbiting Hoffman and Bergen.

So, if you can handle some rough family dynamics (normal), give it a go.

I love call me Kat. I love Dustin Hoffman. But this is so over the top. No redeeming characters or plot. Not at all realistic. Candace Bergman as the mother is so unlikeable that it ruins the whole story.

Just a regular story about life, chapters, transitions, focused on how one Jewish gal apparently leans into her faith to make it through (we are left to assume). Well worth the watch even if you are not Jewish. Also, kudos MB for such a daring, bold move, not only P+D, but also WRITING. Well done. IHS.

The writing alone is fantastic, but add on the wonderful ensemble cast and youre a for an emotional exploration of which there are few better in the last few years.

Diana Agron is the central character, and is just wonderful, and deserves accolades for the performance she puts in, its good to see her in a great post-glee role. She has such a presence, and even her voice is as warm and beautiful as she appears.

Simon Hedberg as the estranged brother likewise gets a good opportunity here to show us his post geek potential.

Not sure i need to single Mr Hoffman out at this stage in his career, he puts in what you expect, complete with humour and grace.

Ms Bergen is just great, as the matriach, doing so well with the material that you will probably dislike her character (immensely)

The film feels well paced and recollections and flashbacks to me at least seemed perfectly timed to explain characters reactions to circumstances through the film.

If this is Mayim Bialiks first outing, then i cant wait for the second....