Film Fetish: "Little Children"

Little Children (2006)
- directed by Todd Field


Todd Field's follow-up to 2001's In The Bedroom is an adaptation of Tom Perrotta's novel of the same name, Little Children. The film is a slice-of-life view of several seemingly disconnected, yet interconnected people living out their lives in a quiet suburban community. The film focuses on the relationship between the two lead characters Sarah (Kate Winslet) and Brad (Patrick Wilson), who feel trapped in their respective stilted marriages. Their budding friendship and the complications that arise from it set the stage for a string of decisions that lead toward an unfortunate and unlikely end.

I've been in love with Todd Field ever since he directed In The Bedroom. In fact, it's the only reason I love him because I haven't seen much else of his work. That said, taking into account this film as well, I can definitely say that Mr. Field is a truly competent director and an intriguing storyteller to boot. This film, while very different from In The Bedroom, offers up an equally compelling and unique perspective on the nature, reality and idea of marriage. The film has shades of tragedy, yet not much so that the film becomes yet another trite satire of American suburbia. Everything here feels real. Feels honest and true. It's that sense that lends an overall dread to the viewing experience. It all feels voyeuristic, to the point that the telling of the story feels intensely vicarious. This movie is an exercise in confronting your own mistakes and regrets and challenges your ideas of morality. In short, I loved this movie. ;)

8/10 Fucked up people, fucked up relationships and fucked up situations. What more can I say? :P Seriously though, this is an excellent drama with thought provoking ideas about relationship tying it altogether. In league with the very best, of what I like to call, cautionary tales.



* Spoilers *

If you have absolutely no interest in seeing this film, you owe yourself to at least check out the trailer. If you know me well enough you should know I hate trailers as a general rule, because generally speaking they're all shit. But every now and again one pops up that stands alone on its own as a great piece of film making. At the very least, a masterpiece of editing. The trailer for Little Children is one of these trailers. A masterpiece. Enjoy. ;)

p.s. This film has some of the hottest sex scenes in American cinema. :P :D

DS333, much pleased.