C’mon C’mon ticket giveaway

The relationship between child and parent, relative or caregiver lays the foundation of a formed attachment style, developmental psychologists would argue. In Mike Mills’ comedy drama C’mon C’mon, these sacred bonds are tried, tested, broken and forged by an A-class cast including Joaquin Phoenix, Gaby Hoffmann and Woody Norman. The black-and-white feature explores the similarities between mature adults and adolescent children, and how much one can learn if we bothered to listen.

When you think about the future, how do you think it will be? 

Radio journalist Johnny (Joaquin Phoenix) and his crew of videographers and interviewers traipse across the United States to learn about the perspectives of children, their lives and their take on the 21^st century. In stunning documentary style, various youngsters opine on how the world should be, how the world could be, and what lessons we all need to learn.

It turns out that the next generation are sage, pontificating that we are at a point where things need to change. I feel that. One eloquently pinpoints the pulse of the moment, that there is a lack of human connectivity, and that while people can express emotions and speaking up is now easier than the last century, they cannot do this easily.

While these interviews provide food for thought, the main narrative charts the fractured relationship between Johnny and his sister Viv (Gabby Hoffmann) and nephew Jesse (Woody Norman). Viv is forced to deal with her husband Paul (Scoot McNairy), who has gone off the grid and is battling mental health problems. Johnny offers to look after Jesse for the interim, but time and events extend his stay.

The chemistry between Phoenix and Norman is beautiful to see. The way they play off each other is quite natural and they both possess the range to play different roles within their relationship. Sometimes we see Jesse act as the nurturing parent, other times Johnny acts as a total disciplinarian. All the while indie-film darling Gabby Hoffmann presents as the imperfectly perfect parent.

C’mon C’mon is heart warming, contemplative and a dream watch. The cinematography of New York City, New Orleans and Los Angeles are breathtaking, especially the final scenes where Phoenix and Norman navigate a parade. This is one movie where you will re-think your relationships and examine how one can grow from a place of love and acceptance.

To celebrate the film, Milk Bar is giving away five FREE double passes. All you need do is email ross@milkbarmag.com with the subject line ‘C’mon C’mon ticket giveaway’ and include your name, postal address and which cinema you are likely to watch the film.

C’mon C’mon
In cinemas now
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