Skip to main content

Dome Pondering Movie Review: Sunshine Cleaning (2008)

DPMovieReviewSunshineCleaning
What’s it about?


After her son is removed from school, a mom begins an unusual business of biohazard removal/crime scene clean up service with her enigmatic and unreliable sister. Through her desperation and operation of the business she learns more about herself, her son, her father, and that life is indeed the messy business.

Who is in it?

Amy Adams – Rose Lorkowski

Emily Blunt – Norah Lorkowski

Alan Arkin – Joe Lorkowski

Jason Spevack – Oscar Lorkowski



Favorite Scene


Rose attends a baby shower for a friend from her high school days. As she attempts to impress her friends from high school who are expecting greats things from the former head cheerleader, Rose, who struggles with self confidence, realizes that although what she does may not be impressive to her friends, it was valuable in what really matters in life.

Favorite Quote:

Rose: Since 1963?
Alan: Yeah, it gives a sense of stability. People like that.
Rose: It’s a lie.
Alan: It’s a business lie. It’s different from a life lie.
Rose: [laughs] OK, I can live with that.

Review:

Sunshine Cleaning is a film that is another example that well-thought out independent films are much better than high-budget glitzy productions. Sunshine cleaning is a movie that connects with the majority of its viewers due to it’s realism, genuine issues, and authentic situations.

From Rose who is attempting to straighten out her life, to her sister, Emily, who is unreliable with no direction, who suddenly finds a connection of coping and appreciation for her mom after her suicide, to Alan who is a crazy father, and Rose’s son, Oscar, who is as imaginative as they come, Sunshine Cleaning depicts a family learning about life, and most importantly, learning about their desires to connect with one another.

A film that is entertaining, funny, and thought-provoking with real characters, great dialogue, and better actors that bring it through. 90 minutes that will most certainly not disappoint.

Grade: 3.5/5

Recently Read

Quick Ponder: Future Self

We always think,  what would we say  to our  younger self? However,  what would  our younger self say  if they met us, today?

Dear Son, Big Fan of the Kid Turning Seven

---7 Years Old --- Dear Son,  It’s been a while since I’ve dropped a few thoughts. Forgive me, I’ve just been watching. Just observing. Taking it all in. Trying to be a good dad. I’m punching the keys today from one of your martial arts practices. It’s your second with “the big kids” and also the second time I’ve found myself watching from the sidelines with anxiety, with pride, and with likely my biggest fandom for you yet in this space. My feelings are much more than you playing baseball or coaching you in basketball. Your disposition is different. Your excellence is different in this space. With martial arts, you stay diligent with the process. Respectful. Working hard. Getting better. In competition with and respecting the older kids you are training with. That’s what I’ve enjoyed. It encapsulates everything you’ve grown into thus far. Still empathetic as ever, but adding an element of self-ambition and drive - something I’ve prided myself on - and to see you mature into this m...

Quick Ponder: Living for Your Kids

Many, are willing to die for their kids. Few, are committed to live for their kids.