Iffy for 15+
Sex doll takes center stage in quirky comedy.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know the movie's focus on the main character's "relationship" with a very lifelike sex doll may raise questions from young viewers about just exactly what one is -- and what it does. The film also focuses on Lars' emotional disorder, in part explained by his distress over the fact that his mother died during his birth and his father's bad behavior afterward (these events come up in conversation but aren't shown). Expect some slangy references to women's bodies and sexual activities.
- Families can talk about whether the movie seems at all realistic -- and, for that matter, whether it's intended to. Does the doctor do the right thing in letting Lars believe in Bianca's existence? Do you think it's believable that the townspeople play along? What do you think the movie's overall message is?
What to watch for
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Violence: A minor scuffle between Lars and Karin (she tackles him), meant as comedy.
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Sex: The film focuses on Lars' "romance" with an inflatable sex doll, so it includes discussions of porn, sexual activity, and desire. A couple of shots of a porn Web site show girls in underwear. Brief cleavage shot, plus shot of Bianca the doll's bare bottom. Brief discussion of homosexuality, as neighbors think that Lars might be gay.
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Language: Minor language, including a couple of uses each of "hell" and "damn." Some slangy allusions to sex (i.e., "the right cowboy to tame this wild filly," "slutty hunk of silicone").
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Consumerism: Cracker Jack.
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Drinking, drugs and smoking: A background character smokes a cigarette.
Fan Reviews provided by
5
Lars and the Real Girl by smithpa-_movie_buff
This film is so funny and touching at the same time. You have to go see it. I love this type of comedy instead of those "toilet" humor films.
5
ENCHANTING by bizbuzz
Rarely does one enter a movie theater with such low expectations and come out the other side feeling that their time was well spent, their life richer for having had the experience. This is a marvelous, whimsical and enchanting movie. The writing is economical but spot on perfect; the acting, particularly by Mr. Gosling, is as good as it gets; he deserves recognition come Oscar time. The supporting cast is also terrific. I especially enjoyed the lovely Emily Mortimer (also endearing in "Match Point"). What could have been a total misfire (the notion of passing a sex doll off as a real person), instead comes across as an imaginative, sweet and thoughtful study of human nature and what it truly means to love.
5
Lars and the real heart by Paul Varjak
If you are expecting a comedy of the "weekend at bernies" ilk, please save your pennies for "big mommas house 4" This movie is no gimmick. If you can get your mind past the idea of what may be a fake woman, you will find a lot of real heart. The beauty of this picture, and it is beauty in an old fashioned, decent, human kind of beauty, is the love of a community of people. They don't make movies like this anymore, and it's a shame because it reminds you of the power of human-kindness. At some point in our life-time technology has surpassed humanity, this movie is a taste of the opposite.
4
sweetness itself by Doctorknowitall
It's getting to the point where I will see anything with Patricia Clarkson in it. I'm already at that point with Ryan Gosling.
This was a great date movie. And it almost turned me into a Talking Heads fan!
5
Funny and moving by movies_goood
Don't watch the preview or the commercials. You will get the wrong idea. Despite the subject this is a fantastic, funny and moving film. A perfect date movie. Ryan Gosling gives a great performance.
4
Charming by VHS_love
This is a great movie about love (and believe it or not, sex is not involved). It shows what happens when you don't get love or give it. Lars handles his issues his own way; and his family and friends provide him with the support he needs. Ryan handles this character beautifully. He is believable as an introvert without making the character pathetic. I smiled throughout (Lars is so likeable). I laughed aloud (the wardrobe alone is pretty funny). I cried a bit, but this movie is not a downer (I'm just sappy).
5
Best Movie I Saw This Year by serafinagee
I see alot of movies, but not as many that I love as much as this. The acting is incredible, the script is genius and all in all it is clever, funny and so refreshing to see a movie that is creative and not a Hollywood formula. I liked it so much that I am going again tonight with my boyfriend. It is a must go and Ryan Gosling has started proving himself as an incredibly talented actor.
5
Funniest & Most Original by rlynnt
This was one of the best movies I have ever seen. Not only was it hilarious, but it also had depth and was not even remotely similar to any previously used plot line that I am aware of - a rarity in movies these days. The performances were all totally believable, in spite of the outrageous premise, and Ryan Gosling's was the most fabulously nuanced of them all. I cannot praise this movie highly enough, nor all of the performers - they were uniformly wonderful. And so must the director be to turn out such a uniquely entertaining film. This is one that I would go to see two or three times AND buy the DVD. I can't imagine why it was given such a limited release. Surely it must be obvious to anyone who watches it that this movie is a total winner. I hope it is given the chance to be exposed to the world, it deserves the opportunity and many people would be grateful for the chance to see such a great film.
5
Lars and the Real Girl by walkerjanie
This movie is the oddest, sweetest, funniest, saddest most hopeful story I have seen in a long time. The main actors are wonderful in their role. Even the townspeople are affecting. But. particularly Lars (played by Ryan Gosling) whose expressive eyes pull you in to caring about his character no matter how delusional. It is extraordinary to watch Lars begin to examine reality and take careful steps to finally become a part of it. I highly recommend this movie.
5
lars and the real girl by raising arizona
Yes, this was a dark comedy, concerning psychosocial problems, but the acting was superior, and the messages heartwarming and instructional.
It clearly defined what a community should be like.
One that gives unanimous support, to help one of it's own. deal with difficulties.
It clearly focused on the importance of family love, in order to provide the necessary nurturing for people to succeed and be functional in life.
Loved this flick.