Igby Goes Down Reviews

An involving surprise

I settled down to watch Igby expecting little more than a light hearted peek into the privileged life of the American upper class, sort of Cruel Intentions with a smile. But what a wonderful, slowly evolving, surprise this film proved to be. First time director/screen writer Burr Steers delivers a truly involving story revolving around the titular Igby as a deeply troubled, fiercely independent teenager without direction. While we follow his descent form preppy school boy to preppy drug dealer, we are treated to a slowly developing picture of his dysfunctional family. With Susan Sarandon giving, for my money, one of her best ever performances as the mother from hell and the wildly variable Jeff Goldblum coming up trumps as an a-moral god father it is pretty clear why Igby is “going down” in life.

While there are elements to dislike about this film, from the over privileged world whiney characters to the self-indulgent feel of the big name cast (see the “behind the scenes” footage to really see luvvies at work), it still manages to be a film you can enjoy and recommend to others. As Mark Kermode (all hail the mighty Kermode) put it “it's hard not to applaud any 'mainstream' movie that allows loveable Jeff Goldblum to beat up one of the Culkin kids onscreen!”

If you're cool, then this movie needs you!

I can't decide. Was this a thought provoking tale of a direction-less teenager or a story so aimless it made me think nothing? Well, I answered my own question by sitting here deciding whether it was a good movie or not. It was thought provoking but still pointless.

I think if you are one of those film buffs who thinks themselves a bit cool, you will love this movie. You won't really have a good explanation for liking this film other than how cool and trendy it is to like it. Definitely a movie with the appearance of a bigger picture or a life changing lesson but falls short when delivering the goods. Still, people will watch this movie and proclaim how they understand the bigger picture only to sound cool. If you sometimes find yourself sitting under a tree in the park reading (or pretending to read) a copy of either 'Catcher in the Rye' or 'On the Road' then rent this movie as it will improve your already cool self image.

All that aside, Culkin really does a good job to show up the more prestigious acting talent. Demonstrating that his and Claire Danes performances were enough to keep me interested but not entertained.

interesting

this film is a wierd one it has to be said. i did sit there wondering what direction the movie was heading in for most of the time. there were comical moments in it, of a very dark side. susan sarandon's performance was brilliant as always. it was good to see claire danes in the picture also. i guess this would be high end culture in the style of jerry springer, an insight into the dysfunctional world of the east coast upper class society. whilst its direction seemed aimless, it could be said that this is a reflection on life itself.

Igby rises from the ashes

what a film. Loved it. The acting is second to none and i loved the fact that the big named stars are relegated to the smaller roles by kieran culkin who is finally taking on a role worthy of his talent. I expect to see alot of him in the future.

Not great

This film started off quite well, it has some original touches... it has things going for it. But, as a comedy- it's just not funny. And it seemed to be pushing the 'indie' button too hard- trying to look offbeat but it really doesn't quite make it.

Culkin is great though- he's like a young Robert Downey JR. Probably worth a rent, but it's not that great. A shame, cause I was expecting a lot from it!

Suprisingly Good

I really enjoyed this film, it was smart and funny, very well acted and well produced.

It is a sort of coming of age tale, but not done in the usual way.

The story is well polished, and keeps you transfixed from start to finish, it has some very amusing parts in it, and Kulkin (and the other cast) pull's it off with an amazing ease, he is definately one to watch out for.

It's a very good film, worth checking out

compelling

a compelling tale that keeps your attention throughout. great cast and acted well

What a talented young actor!!

I really enjoyed this movie. If you're looking for a fast paced thriller, look away. This film is a drama, and is not unlike The Royal Tenenbaums in the style it's shot. It also has some great performances. Kieran Culkin is excellent, someone to look out for in the future. Clare Danes is gorgeous as usual, and well cast, as is the rich Godfather D.H. (Jeff Goldblum). Susan Sarandon puts up a typically great performance as the self absorbed pill popping mother.

The film explores the coming of age experiences of a young man, who has a host of unstable relationships with all around him. The film isn't a jolly one, but very thought provoking, and emotional at times. If you're in the mood for some drama, you can't go wrong with this.

What a talented young actor Kieran Culkin is. Wow!

This is a truly <b>splendid</b> film.<p>We saw it by accident, as we intended to see another film; but were totally blown away by the experience.

An ensemble performance from a great cast, particularly Kieran Culkin as the eponymous poor little rich kid and Jeff Goldblum as his sleazy godfather.<p><i>A gritty coming-of-age movie with moments that are both heart-rending and heart-warming.

Igby Goes Up, Up and Beyond

A host of obnoxious, vile, self-absorbed characters weave together to produce one of the best films I have seen in years. From the selfish pill popping mother superbly played by Susan Sarandon in a wig to the vile DH, Igby's godfather, Jeff Goldblum sounding suspiciously like a modern day James Mason. Brother Oliver is a 21st century Narcissus and father, Bill Pullman a man absorbed by his own depressions. The jewel in the crown though, is Igby, played superbly by Kieran Culkin. If you thought the Culkins stopped with "Home Alone", think again and watch transfixed as you realise the best was saved till last.