Boyhood

Grade: A-

Writer/director Richard Linklater does not work with a cookie cutter. He consistently gives us vibrant, inspiring, thought-provoking pieces of cinema. His latest film, Boyhood, is an amazing “slice-of-life” movie. It was filmed over the course of 11 years with many of the same actors. No makeup or hair tricks were employed here to signify aging; the actors just naturally got older, as any of us did from 2002 to 2013. I have not always enjoyed Patricia Arquette’s performances, and I’ve finally put my finger on why. Her speaking voice is annoyingly “wimpy” and “worn down” sounding to my ears. Here, it is perfect for her role. The 3 other main cast members (Ethan Hawke, Ellar Coltrane, and Lorelei Linklater) do captivating work, which you would expect especially from the latter two, who literally grew up making this movie. There are no fancy bells and whistles in this film, and the ending is one of the movie’s quietest moments. Plus, you will have to hunker down for a lengthy journey, as Boyhood clocks in at 2 hours and 45 minutes. It takes its time, meanders, takes a few detours into some chapters or subplots you might not care for as much, but ultimately pleases and touches the heart. Doesn’t that sound an awful lot like life – or something like it? Grade: A-