All My Puny Sorrows

This isn't a fun watch, but it is profoundly good, honest cinema. The subject matter is emotionally complex. The performances by Sarah Gadon, Alison Pill, and Mare Winningham are compelling. Lesser actors would not have been able to express the complexity of the feelings with such directed intent.

The movie isn't perfect. At 103 minutes, the movie isn't all that long, but there are some editing choices that could have made for a better pace. There are multi-minute segments that drag a little bit. Honestly, I think the movie would have been fine if the last eleven minutes were edited out.

That said, this is a good movie if you are in the mood to feel some melancholy.

The film achieves its goal in displaying the multitude of effects that illness can take on a family and the very real endless concern that is required and rightfully present. The film does not censor or shy away from how difficult a challenge this is and does a good job showing how this trauma can impact generations of the family.

The performances are good with a very appropriate soundtrack.

This is not a film for everyone. It moves at a slow burn. It addresses the repeated tragedy of suicide in a family. It lets its story rest in its characters. The heartbeats are daily struggle, silent moments, deep bonds and literate musings. If it were not for the extraordinary talents of the cast this film would lose its footing but there is great talent here. I give this film an 8 (masterfully performed) out of 10. {Drama}

Simple, elegant and emotional. Allison Pill and Sarah Gadon deliver performances I am speechless to describe. It is a heart breaking journey but one I want to see over and over again so I can revel in their beautiful performances. I'm also happy and proud about the Canadian representation.

The most beautifully written piece I've seen in a very long time. And splendid acting by all...especially Mare Winninham and Alison Pill. Surprising humor considering the dark subject matter.