Film: Cyrus
Cast includes: John C. Reilly (Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story), Jonah Hill (The Invention of Lying), Marisa Tomei (My Cousin Vinny), Catherine Keener (Capote)
Writer/Directors: Mark & Jay Duplass (The Puffy Chair)
Genre: Comedy/drama (2010)
In brief: It’s been 7 years since the divorce, but John still hasn’t gotten used to the idea. When ex-wife, Jamie, tells John that she’s getting remarried, panic sets in. At a party that promises “great chicks,” John socializing skills are beyond hopeless. But for some unknown reason, Molly finds him endearing. And John is wonder-struck that such a sweet, sexy and great-looking woman would find him appealing. Molly’s just perfect… beyond John’s wildest expectations. On their second night together, John is overcome with joy and says, “Is it crazy for me to say I want it to work out?” All Molly says is, “Life is really complicated right now.” What’s up with Molly? She never stays over until morning... Is she married? Is she a secret agent?
John soon discovers what’s up. Molly has a son… but not your average son. Cyrus is 21 years old and he’s rather strange… but it’s hard to put your finger on it at first. There’s a certain intensity, but that’s only part of it. Cyrus welcomes John into their home in a way that feels rather like a husband welcoming a wife’s friend. He questions John in a way that feels more like a dad interviewing his daughter’s date. He interacts with his mom in a way that feels like a big brother... until he becomes a needy child again. He tells John, “Molly and I are like best friends.” Molly whispers to John, “He’s very mature, but he hasn’t quite come into his own.” Over time, it becomes obvious that Cyrus is also very manipulative… and very, very good at it. Should John try to play Cyrus’s game or should John confront Molly? How far will Molly go to defend her son?
This quirky Oedipus story is not your typical Hollywood comedy. Jonah Hill as Cyrus is downright creepy, but he doesn’t over act. In fact, the performances and the relationships seem very real… once you've accept the premise of the movie. Don’t be surprised if it brings to mind someone from your own experiences… perhaps a memory that make you feel squeamish. Not only is Cyrus manipulative, Molly is an enabler… which of course, is how the Oedipus thing usually works. And when a new person comes into the mix, the effect can be toxic... especially for the outsider. Cyrus has gotten mixed reviews, with some liking it a lot and others hating the creepiness factor. Although this is the biggest film so far for the Duplass brothers, it still has the feel of an independent. Most observers are betting on a bright future for the newest movie-making brothers.
2 popped kernels
Popped kernels for the creepiness... unpopped kernels for the creepiness... excellent performances
Popcorn Profile
Primary Audience: Young adults
Gender Appeal: Any audience
Distribution: Mainstream limited release
Mood: Neither upbeat nor somber
Tempo: Cruses comfortably
Visual Style: Unvarnished realism
Character Development: Engaging
Language: True to life
Social Significance: Pure entertainment
