Away We Go

A quick post here, normally I'm not aiming to run film reviews in here, but since this was a fairly independent, smaller comedy, I'll let it slide.

Away We Go (2009)

Starring John Krasinski and Maya Rudolph.

A really touching, fun comedy about an unwed early 30s couple, pregnancy with their first child, trying to determine where in the world to stake their claim and raise the forthcoming child. My wife and I stumbled into this film, for no other reason than it happened to be the show playing at 12:40, but within about 3 minutes I realized it was a perfect film for us, in that it easily parallels many of our experiences these days as we prepare for our first child's birth in December.

The funniest parts of the film revolve around the couple visiting various friends, family members, and acquaintances with often uncomfortable results as they begin to see the personality flaws of each potential new neighbor, seemingly pumped up on steroids. The acquaintances range from an overly preachy liberal college professor to an alcoholic former co worker, to a down on his luck single brother. Ultimately, the arc of the story is one of finding your place in the world, both as an individual and as a family.

Other notable films I've seen recently that I'd recommend (How about 3 Martial Arts Films, for no particular reason other than they kick ass!)

Red Belt - A David Mamet martial arts action film with the heart and soul of a bittersweet drama.

Ip Man - Donnie Yen as Bruce Lee's legendary instructor. Beautifully shot and executed...questionable historical accuracy.

Foot Fist Way - A hilarious potrayal of an out of shape, Tae Kwon Do instructor in a small southern town struggling with a promiscuous wife and a hero who ultimately fails to live up to the warriors code.