This is Mike Mills' first feature, a film which he has stated was "unmarketable". Quite surprising really, given his history directing TV adverts for Nike, Levis and Volkswagen, not to mention the fact that this film is a cracker.
Based on the novel of the same name by Walter Kirn it tells the story of Justin (Lou Taylor Pucci) Cobb, who, at the age of 17 is still sucking his thumb. When scene-stealing orthodontist (Keanu Reeves) helps him stop through hypnotism his life and those around him are severely affected.
If you like Me and You and Everybody We Know (2005), Junebug (2005), The Squid and the Whale (2005), Half Nelson (2006) etc then you're going to like this. It contains many of the classic teen-angst clichés but the film remains a treat. It's 96 minute running time just flies by as we're introduced to the wonderful cast and characters inhibiting his world. Closest of which include his Full Metal Jacket (1987) pyscho father (Vincent D'Onofrio), his wonderfully understated (co-executive producer) mother Tilda Swinton and Mills second time collaborator Kids (1995) graduate Kelli Garner as the love interest.
Special attention should be paid to the excellent soundtrack which could have been even better. Due to his untimely death in late 2003 it features only three of the many Elliot Smith songs originally planned to be included. The highlight being the montage sequence set to the morose ballad of "Trouble".
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