‘The Kids Are All Right’ charming and delightful

Director: Lisa Cholodenko

Cast: Annette Bening, Julianne Moore, Mark Ruffalo

Cert: 16

The film about which there has been much Oscar talk arrives and all the eager anticipation and hype is fully justified.

We have here a funny, sincere, warm-hearted and honest look at family life, even if the family consists of Nic (Bening) and Jules (Moore) – in a long-term lesbian relationship – and their two teenage children, obtained from a sperm bank.

The children decide they would like to find their donation dad and track down Paul (Ruffalo) who eventually meets the mothers, with accompanying complications.

All three main players have seldom been better, or better served by a well-rounded screenplay, and such talent brings to the film a rich understanding of family life in Southern California, however unconventional this family might be.

It’s a charming and delightful film with something for everyone.

Star Rating: 5/5