Echo Park

This very special movie is built around the tensions that develop among lovers and close friends, as a result of different needs and, specifically, different takes on what love is.

All the main characters are sympathetic, and the choices they make--even when you figure they might be making a mistake--are understandable and defensible. No one does anything really stupid, but what they do is enough to create the tensions that drive the plot.

The actors bring keen sensitivity to this very human, tender film. The director must be in love with Los Angeles, because the shots around town are among the most gorgeous you're likely to have seen.

I think it is easy to oversimplify a description movie. Paradoxically, the flow and quietness bring clarity and simplicity to a young woman's life crisis. I felt her introspective determination keenly as she navigated into her own vision of life for herself and away from the expectations that surrounded her in both sides of the decision. I love this movie, and see some new subtle expression each time I watch.

What is the point of this movie? What a WASTE of two hours. Seriously just awful. Gave 1 because I couldn't give zero!

It's completely impossible to find this movie to stream. ANYWHERE. I would even gladly buy the film. Why did it disappear off of the face of the earth!? I was born and raised in Los Angeles and the entire feel of this movie is so cool. Did you know that the lead actress is Meryl Streep's daughter? Yep! I was surprised too. And do you recognize the lead actor? Yep! Old DJ from the Ellen show. I always missed him when he left the show. I loved him in this role. The little family in the neighborhood was very cool too. Have you ever driven through the neighborhood of Echo Park Hills? It's pretty treacherous and absolutely amazing! Bring this movie back!!!

First off, it's always nice to see a film about L.A. that looks like it is set in L.A. -- especially when it doesn't feature celebrities that take you out of the illusion.

It's also nice to see a well-written, mature film about adults that doesn't resort to clichés or sensationalism (excessive sex, violence, cursing, etc) to tell it's story. This is a story about friendships and choices, and discovering what is real in life.

As someone who has visited Echo Park many times in the past, this movie feels like a true L.A. story: these are the kinds of movies I'd like to see made more often, whether about Los Angeles specifically, or about relationships in general.