Movie Breakdown: Nebraska

People are doing traditional-style reviews all over the web, so we decided to try something different.  In each “breakdown” we’ll take a look at what a film’s marketing lead us to believe, how the movie actually played, and then what we learned from it all.  Read on!

The Impression:

Bruce Dern is Woody Grant, an old man who is certain he’s won a million bucks.  MacGruber himself, Will Forte plays his sympathetic son.

The Reality:

Nebraska looks like a quirky good time, and while there are a good share of laughs to be had, the film itself is actually a fairly depressing ride.  Alexander Payne really takes his time unfolding the unfortunate story of Woody Grant, and along the way he makes sure you feel sorry for him, any old person you know, and the future elder version of yourself.  It’s all a little tough to watch, but I do think that in the end the film makes for a rewarding experience.  See it when you can.

By the way, it will be a shame if Bruce Dern doesn’t get some recognition come Oscar time.

The Lesson:

Being old is hard.