Finding Normal

Found this one on Netflix a couple of years ago and don't even remember why I added it to my list. None of the cast members were known to me. Might have been looking for some lightweight escapism.

This provided. It seemed like the kind of rom-com that Reese Witherspoon might have made, and there is more than a passing resemblance between Candace Cameron Bure and Reese. Something about this movie drew me in. I especially liked Lou Beatty Jr. as the judge. There weren't many false notes in the movie, all the way up to and including the "message" contained in the courtroom sequence. Agree or disagree with the legal issues, they don't take up a lot of time and won't cause you any trauma. I'm not the least bit religious and strongly support separation of church and state. Despite that, there was much more to like about Finding Normal than to dislike, and I have recommended it to a lot of my friends.

This is a light-hearted movie that is inspiring if you like a "dreams come true" type of movie. It emphasizes happiness but faith definitely plays a part as well.

28 July 2014. This predictable, but enjoyable gender twist on Doc Hollywood (1991) starring Michael J. Fox as the urbanized male doctor instead of Candace Cameron Bure who doesn't get top billing even though she has the lead role makes for an entertaining city slicker who begins to appreciate the simple ways of country life.

Unlike Doc Hollywood, there are not as many short clips of doctor visits to fascinating patients and the dramatic older doctor scene is not as pronounced which makes for a more monotone storyline. The old doc in Finding Normal though is a much more fascinating, if less irascible character.

Overall, Finding Normal while it has its charms, some nice photography, and a more prominent religion tone, doesn't quite have the charm and comic finesse as Doc Hollywood.

Finding Normal was an enjoyable movie for the whole family. There were humorous moments and some poignant phrases that brought the film to a deeper level. As a mother with young children, it is nice to come across a movie that doesn't scare them or embarrass me. The acting was very well done and I enjoyed the country scenery. It was refreshing to see small town life portrayed in a positive light, exposing some of the stereotypes that float around unchallenged. I was also pleased to see homeschooling portrayed as a viable option for a "normal" family, again challenging certain unfair stereotypes. Overall, the film gently but honestly depicted American small town life in a friendly, understanding manner supporting strong family values and challenging some of the more sensational small town depictions that other films like to portray.

Dearly love actor, producer Lou Beatty in movie Finding Normal. He steals your heart in this movie. He's so likable, lovable, intelligent, quick with humor, wonderfully caring & has a great deal of wisdom.