Watch Almost Normal
- 2004
- 1 hr 30 min
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5.4 (1,210)
Almost Normal is a poignant and heartwarming movie that explores themes of acceptance, identity, and how our choices and actions can shape our lives. The film centers around the character of Brad Jenkins, a gay man who has lived a less-than-ideal life. After a freak accident, he wakes up 17 years later to find that he has the perfect life - a beautiful wife, two kids, a house in the suburbs, and a high-paying job.
Initially, Brad is convinced that he has been given a second chance, but as he tries to navigate his new life, he realizes that things are not as perfect as they seem. He struggles to connect with his wife and children, feels disconnected from his colleagues at work, and yearns for the life he had before the accident.
As Brad tries to navigate his new reality, he also begins to question his own identity and what it means to be true to oneself. He grapples with the social norms and expectations placed upon him by society and his own internal struggle of wanting to be accepted for who he is rather than who he is supposed to be.
The film does an excellent job of exploring these complex themes through its well-written script and the nuanced performances by its talented cast. J. Andrew Keitch delivers a standout performance as Brad, perfectly capturing the confusion and emotional turmoil of a man trying to reconcile his past with his present. Joan Lauckner and Tim Hammer also deliver excellent performances as Brad's wife and son respectively, adding depth and emotional resonance to the story.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is its handling of LGBT+ issues. Rather than focusing simply on Brad's sexuality, the film uses his experience as a way to explore larger themes of societal expectations and acceptance. It touches on issues such as homophobia, gender norms, and the fear of rejection, without ever feeling preachy or heavy-handed.
Alongside its themes of identity and acceptance, Almost Normal also delivers plenty of laughs and heartwarming moments. The film is peppered with witty one-liners and comedic moments, which help to break up the more emotional scenes and keep the audience engaged throughout.
In terms of its technical aspects, Almost Normal is a well-made indie film. The cinematography is solid and the film has a warm and inviting visual style that perfectly complements its themes. The editing is also tight, helping to keep the pace moving along nicely without ever feeling rushed.
Overall, Almost Normal is a touching and thought-provoking film that will resonate with anyone who has ever felt like they don't quite fit in. It is a well-made indie movie with a great screenplay and some excellent performances, and it offers an insightful and uplifting take on themes of identity, acceptance, and the power of choice. If you're looking for a heartwarming and intelligent movie with real emotional depth, then Almost Normal is definitely one to add to your watchlist.