Merry Good enough

Merry Good Enough is a heartwarming, humorous vacation film that brilliantly tackles the complexities of family dynamics during the festive season. The film revolves around Lucy Raulie, played by the brilliant Raye Levine, who embarks on a journey to reunite her dysfunctional family after her mother disappears on Christmas Eve. What Happens is a remarkable exploration of love, laughter and the messy but endearing moments that define family bonds.

The film is a refreshing take on the holiday genre, offering a unique blend of humor and touching moments. The plot, though centered on a family's search for their missing mother, manages to be realistic, captivating and often laugh-out-loud funny. The entire cast delivers captivating performances, with Raye Levine shining in the lead role. Her portrayal of Lucy adds depth and authenticity to her character, making her an engaging protagonist.

Caroline Keene's direction and writing strike a perfect balance between emotion and laughter, making Merry Good Enough an instant holiday classic. The film deftly delves into the complex dynamics of family relationships during the holiday season and strikes a chord with audiences. The exploration of mother-daughter relationships adds a poignant layer to the story, highlighting the painful tensions that can exist when celebrating the festive season.

The film's success is due not only to its captivating plot, but also to its remarkable cast. The chemistry between the Raulie siblings, played by Daniel Desmarais and Comfort Clinton, is palpable, creating a believable and relatable family dynamic. Joel Murray's portrayal of the eccentric father adds a delightful touch to the story, bringing both humor and heart to the screen.

What sets Merry Good Enough apart is its ability to resonate with audiences beyond the holiday season. The film's universal themes of love, reconciliation and messy family life make it timeless and enjoyable to watch all year round. The film's natural pace, reminiscent of a Paul Thomas Anderson production, allows audiences to savor every moment with the characters.

Merry Good Enough is a delightful vacation film that exceeds all expectations. With its captivating script, exceptional cast and authentic exploration of family dynamics, the film stands out as a must-see for those seeking a heartwarming and entertaining cinematic experience. It manages to capture the essence of the vacation spirit while leaving a lasting impression on its viewers. Don't miss the opportunity to join the Raulie family on their journey of laughter, tears and rediscovery this holiday season.

Merry Good Enough
Directed by Caroline Keene, Dan Kennedy
Produced by Shawn Gauvain, Dan Kennedy, Krista Minto, Jamieson Shea, Genevieve Skehan
Written by Caroline Keene
Starring Joel Murray, Sawyer Spielberg, Susan Gallagher, Comfort Clinton, Sophie von Haselberg, Neil Casey, Marcia DeBonis, Raye Levine, Rosemary Howard, Kevin O. Peterson, Brett Wyman, Dennis Daniel, Daniel Desmarais, Margaret Curry, Daniel Desmarais
Cinematography : Matthew Cooney, Dan Kennedy
Production companies : Little Sky Film, Owl Tree Productions, Vagrants Originals
Distributed by Freestyle Digital Media (United States)
Release date : November 24, 2023 (United States)
Running time : 97 minutes

Viewed: December 12, 2023 (screener press)

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