Movie Mondays: Crazy Stupid Love by Dan Fogelman

*Spoiler Alert*
I love this script. The layers and interconnectedness of the stories, the message about love being the most important thing worth fighting for, and the theme of soul mates. My husband thought the plot twist with "Nana" being the daughter was obvious from the beginning, but I didn't see it coming somehow. But, I tend to not think ahead when I watch movies, which is why it's one of my favorite things to do--I get to completely be immersed in the moment instead of my thoughts running nonstop.
Anyway, the plot twist was more than just a cutesy device; it showed how the people we are drawn to, for whatever reason, are also often drawn to each other. Kindred spirits and like-mindedness and all that jazz. It's certainly true for this family, and although creates some challenging moments, it also brings them all back together.
This movie also shows our reach of influence in this world, even if we don't think that it's very much. Our actions and words can literally bite us in the ass, which is why it's so important to be your authentic, true self at all times. Don't put on different masks (especially in this digital age). You will be sussed out and made to look foolish. Having a firm set of beliefs and values that you stick to in any dealing you have with people, and you will lead a happier existence (at least, screenwriter Dan Fogelman seems to suggest this hopeful message).
Speaking of Fogelman, I am always so thrilled to discover that a writer of a movie I like and review has been involved with other movies I have enjoyed. Fogelman also wrote Tangled, a witty, laugh-out-loud animated film (and I am not one to watch animated movies so much). I also want to see Bolt, another Fogelman screenplay. (If you have seen it, let me know if it's worth renting!).
I cannot end without praising Steve Carrell and Ryan Gosling's performances. I love whenever Carrell plays the heartfelt, flawed hero, like in Dan in Real Life. I hope he does more movies like these in the future. Trust me, I understand the appeal of his goofier, wilder characters. But I love love love this down-to-earth side. And it was fun seeing Ryan Gosling play a different type of role--letting himself be the fun, super sexy guy with a slightly tortured soul versus an extremely tortured soul like he often does. Excellent.