Movie Review: Carolina

A small town girl strives to be successful in life but never forgetting where her heart is in this heart warming family film. Julia Stiles is Carolina, a woman raised by her grandmother and hoping to give a better life to her family. Her father Theodore (played by Randy QuaidRandy Quaid) drops the latest addition to the family (new baby sister Maine) as he continues with his carefree drunk life. Throughout the film you follow the growing chemistry between Carolina and her neighbor/best friend Albert (Alessandro Nivola) as well as their relationship with the Merabeau family. The grandmother (Shirley McClaine) is the foundation of the Merabeau family accepting all for who they are and giving advice in her crude and unique way. The love grandma has for her family is felt by all and when the family partiarch falls to tragedy, it is Carolina who continues spreading the love. The best aspect I love about this movie is not the romance story line between Carolina and Albert but the closeness of the family. Carolina never strays from her family and is always there to help. She understands her family is unique and those who are scared by it don't belong. I recommend this movie for everyone of every age. It has its comedic blunders as well as drama and true family values. It is surprising it is only that of a close to unheard of film but it should be viewed by all to see that bond of a family should never be broken and acceptance is what keeps the peace.