C'mon C'mon (2021)

C'mon C'mon Poster

Johnny and his young nephew forge a tenuous but transformational relationship when they embark on a cross-country trip to see life away from Los Angeles.

Intro
"C'mon C'mon" is a 2021 black-and-white drama movie written and directed by Mike Mills. Starring Joaquin Phoenix, Gaby Hoffmann, and Woody Norman, the film explores the relationships between grownups and kids, diving into the themes of family bonding, emotional growth, and the intricacies of being a parent and youth.

Plot Overview
The film introduces us to Johnny (Joaquin Phoenix), a kind-hearted radio journalist who travels across the United States speaking with children about their thoughts on the future and the world around them. Johnny's life takes an unexpected turn when he is asked by his estranged sis, Viv (Gaby Hoffmann), to look after her 9-year-old boy Jesse (Woody Norman) while she helps her ex-husband browse a mental health crisis.

At first, Johnny is ill-prepared for the job of taking care of an energetic and precocious child, however what follows is the unfolding of an intimate, winding journey of connection and self-discovery. As Johnny takes Jesse with him on his work trips to various cities, the psychological walls between them slowly come down. Johnny faces the responsibilities and unpredictable nature of taking care of a kid, while Jesse's observant observations and questions challenge Johnny to reconsider his understanding of the world and his relationships.

Characters and Performances
Joaquin Phoenix delivers a suppressed yet compelling performance as Johnny, providing a character that is both gentle and reflective. His bond with Jesse is depicted with sincere love and growing adoration, showcasing Phoenix's capability to connect deeply with his young co-star. Woody Norman's representation of Jesse is incredibly authentic and nuanced, with the young actor holding his own along with Phoenix's powerhouse performance. Gaby Hoffmann, as Viv, is similarly proficient at communicating the complexities of a single mother caught in between issue for her child and her distressed ex-husband.

Themes and Cinematography
"C'mon C'mon" is rich with styles that resonate on a universal level-- the innocence and knowledge of kids, and the often-overlooked need for grownups to listen to the more youthful generation. The film ponders the hopes and fears for the future, as revealed by the children talked to by Johnny, offering poignant insights into the way we shape and are formed by the narratives we show others.

The decision to movie in black and white enhances the story's ageless quality, echoing the traditional feel of independent movie theater. The monochromatic scheme likewise allows the audience to focus on the characters' feelings and interactions without the interruption of color, highlighting the raw and honest performances. Cinematographer Robbie Ryan records both the city landscapes and intimate spaces with a sensitive lens, developing a background that is both aesthetically striking and mentally expressive.

Reception and Conclusion
Upon its release, "C'mon C'mon" got extensive important recognition, praised for its heartfelt story and remarkable acting. The movie especially sticks out for its sound style, which blends the interviews carried out by Johnny with the ambient noise of the cities, creating an immersive audio experience that matches the visual storytelling.

Overall, "C'mon C'mon" is a touching and thoughtful movie that delves into the complexities of human connections. It is a reflective piece that catches the extensive simplicity of the bond between uncle and nephew, and it works as a suggestion of the significance of existing with one another and of listening to the voices of kids. With its long-lasting styles and stellar efficiencies, "C'mon C'mon" is an excellent movie that leaves a long lasting impact on its audience.

Top Cast

  • Joaquin Phoenix (small)
    Joaquin Phoenix
    Johnny
  • Woody Norman (small)
    Woody Norman
    Jesse
  • Gaby Hoffmann (small)
    Gaby Hoffmann
    Viv
  • Scoot McNairy (small)
    Scoot McNairy
    Paul
  • Molly Webster (small)
    Molly Webster
    Roxanne
  • Jaboukie Young-White (small)
    Jaboukie Young-White
    Fern
  • Deborah Strang (small)
    Deborah Strang
    Carol
  • Sunni Patterson
    Sunni
  • Jenny Eliscu
    Waitress
  • Mary Passeri (small)
    Mary Passeri
    Behavioral Center Nurse
  • Brandon Rush
    ER Nurse