Parenthood (1989)

[Gil has been complaining about his complicated life; Grandma wanders into the room] ” You know, when I was nineteen, Grandpa took me on a roller coaster. Up, down, up, down. Oh, what a ride! I always wanted to go again. You know, it was just so interesting to me that a ride could make me so frightened, so scared, so sick, so excited, and so thrilled all together! Some didn’t like it. They went on the merry-go-round. That just goes around. Nothing. I like the roller coaster. You get more out of it. – Grandma

Number of Times Seen – Too many times to count  (Theater, DVD, 2 Jul 2013)

Brief Synopsis – The story of the extended family of a Midwestern family showing the ups and downs that all families experience.

My Take on it – This is my favorite Steve Martin movie. As much as I loved Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987), this movie is slightly better since it’s story is based on themes that anyone everywhere can relate to.

What parent hasn’t had to deal with lots of the issues that all of these characters have to deal with?  I think the movie was so good because it really hit the points that many of us as parents and as children have dealt with throughout our lives.

I like the fact that both children, teens  and parents can find what to laugh at and what to relate to in this movie.

Amazing cast – Steve Martin, Mary Steenburgen, Rick Moranis, Tom Hulce, Jason Robards, Joaquin Pheonix, Martha Plimpton, Dianne Weist, Harley Jane Kozak,  and Keeanu Reeves.

Bottom Line – Great comedy that really reflects life. Some great lines, great all-star cast. Highly Recommended!!

Rating – Oscar Worthy