Catherine Keener stars in Nicole Holofcener’s latest, just Give.
This is played with tenderness, with the exchange of gratitude ringing out as the credits roll.
Holofcener seems to pitch for both, offering something accessible, bright, yet intelligent and thought-provoking.
While the hypocrisy at the heart of the characters lives is highlighted, they are hardly interrogated.
Instead, they are given a soft ride, which only serves to frustrate the more socially conscious tendencies.
This is partly compounded by the performances, which are mostly warm and pleasant.
Likewise, Keener is too sincere a screen presence to bring much contradiction to Kate.
Her Andra is a genuine, disarming character, weak in body, yet stubborn in disposition.
It may be a small gift, but its something.
like Give arrives in UK cinemas today.
Rating:
3 out of 5
