Genre: Drama
Rating: 12
Main Actor: Steve Zahn
Main Actress: Drew Barrymore
YouTube: Film Trailer
This film displays Barrymore's true class as an actress, taking her away from the sweet and fluffy roles such as Josie in 'Never Been Kissed', and placing her in a role that is difficult to feel affection towards. Beverly is self-obsessed, foolish and lacks all sense of responsibility. Her mind is so completely focused on her own dreams, she fails in so many areas of her life - as a parent, as a wife, as a daughter...
Beverly (Barrymore) is a typical teenage girl, growing up in suburban 1960s America, until one night with Ray (Zahn) changes her world forever. Her development as a character is shown through her interactions with other people, especially her father, her son and her husband, but ultimately through her acceptance of responsibility and the life she has made for herself. Whilst it is difficult to truly like her character, Barrymore's performance is wonderful as she displays the varying layers of Beverly's nature, allowing glimpses of a softer, more approachable person.
The story effectively uses flashback sequences to tell the majority of the story, allowing the audience to compare Beverly's character as she battles with the various obstacles placed in the way of her dream. Furthermore, the inclusion of other characters, such as her friends Fay (Brittany Murphy) and Tina (Sara Gilbert), makes clear comparisons with the path Beverly is unwittingly forced to take in life.
There are some incredibly touching moments during this film, and the use of the song 'Dream' to begin and end the journey we take with Beverly is both affective and moving. Whilst this may not be Barrymore's most remembered role, it should certainly be valued, as there is a little bit of Beverly in all of us and witnessing this emotional journey with the character is worthwhile and ultimately beautiful.
Rating: 8/10
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