Kim Gentes

Surprisingly crisp. worthwhile seeing

This film is not what you are thinking. Yes, it is a "chick flick", but it brings some real issues into film. Office politics, parenting rights for the mentally ill, and care for the aged are not exactly the high stakes you expect Cameron Diaz to be playing for in any movie. But here, she executes almost perfect anti-syncronicity with Toni Collette as the yin/yang sisters who love/hate each other. And you believe it.

There are faults with the movie, but it does a great job of staying realistic, while still being a story you can enjoy as a triumphant romance. I love that all the little loose ends are not tied up neatly with each character and that even the conflict resolution between the characters is more acknowledged than obliterated with a tearful, unrealistic last minute encounter. It does lift you emotionally and it is a heroic film, but it isn't at the expense of your brain and what seems like reason.

Shirely McClain, though one of my most disliked actresses, does a very good job of being a distrusting grandmother. Toni Collette is perfect as the misfit, high powered executive sister. And Diaz is practically every other character she has played as the sleazy, witless, morally empty blond, who finds some wake up medicine in caring for dieing patients at an aged care facility in Florida. It's not overly raught with sappy scenes and dialog, but moves from reality to "fantasy" (when good things happen) in spurts and starts, like real life.

Guys, this will be one of those few movies you can go to and enjoy with your lady, and both of you will be glad you did.