The film takes place in cinematographer Ruben Impens’ vision of Northern California’s Marin County. If you’re not watching close enough, you may think you’ve stumbled upon a drug abuse episode of TV’s Big Little Lies. The story to be told is not as easy on the eyes.
Boy is another “based on a true story” addiction story, and there are only two ways these stories go. However, Beautiful Boy offers more welcome realism than Ben Is Back (in theaters December), and interesting characters that elevate it from melodrama familiarity.
The film is based on two memoirs. One by father David Sheff (Steve Carell) and another by son Nic Sheff (Timothée Chalamet), but the film is told mostly from the parental side. It’s a solid choice; this is where the uniqueness lies.
David, a journalist, approaches the crisis by gathering stats, expert facts, and first-hand stories. Eventually he realizes he’s not in control. Similar to Julia Roberts and Lucas Hedges' Ben Is Back, it explores the powerless aspect of parenting at this level — and the power of unconditional love.
In a nutshell: An emotional roller coaster that adds up to a tender, powerful story. Stay through the credits.
Award potential: The film has too many melodrama qualities and unlikely to be recognized other than the acting and screenplay categories. Chalamet is a likely bet for a Best Supporting Actor Oscar nomination, a spot he held last year for his work in Call Me By Your Name.
Carrell is skilled with balancing comedy and drama, but some elements of this role are out of his range and he's in a competitive, high bar category. I’d call him a wild card for Best Actor. Maura Tierney and Amy Ryan are great, but not likely to be recognized for their limited roles.
The ten buck review: Worth ten bucks.
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