Starring: Patricia Arquette, Ellar Coltrane, Lorelei Linklater, and Ethan Hawke.

Synopsis: We take a journey with Mason Evans Jr, and his family for twelve years.

The film piqued my interest when I heard it followed the same family for 12 years. And not just in the “put makeup on actors so they look younger” 12 years. Literally 12 years.

The acting here is superb from supporting players Ethan Hawke and Patricia Arquette. Arquette is at her finest. She takes control of a few of the scenes she’s in, and is absolutely heartbreaking in her finale.  Just give her the Oscar already!

The film has one flaw: the almost three hour run time. However, I can overlook this because the film keeps pace. I felt the first half of the film was stronger for Mason Jr. As little boys, we all go through what he goes through on screen…but Linklater crafted it as if we were experiencing it for the first time (if that makes sense). There were a few moments where I literally laughed out loud. A few where I couldn’t do anything but smile. And one or two moments where I welled up.

I’ve heard many say they didn’t like the film because there was no plot. Growing up doesn’t have a plot. There are no action sequences, alien invasions or rom-com cliches in real life. “Boyhood” is intimate. You feel as if you’re a family member, watching this family go through the trials of life.  The ending of the film has been criticized as well..but just like the film itself..I think it’s perfect.

UPDATED 2/19: After watching the film again, the film could’ve also been titled “Motherhood.” It’s almost a “love” story between Mason Jr. and his mom. To me THAT is the best part of the film. And if you’ve seen the film, that’s why I feel Arquette’s last scene is heart shattering.

  out of 5

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