More than a Boost of Sunshine

By Tammy Van, staff writer
Tuesday September 12, 2006

Little Miss Sunshine is the small-town girl who aspires to be crowned pageant queen. But it's not that simple, because this film has you digging beyond the surface to reveal its family satire. There are the tough times, and then there are those of the Hoovers.

The Hoover family is a living epitome of a dysfunctional, suburban family. These bizarre characters exhibit a bittersweet nature that will warm up to their viewers in no time. From the adorable Olive Hoover (Abigail Breslin) to her ne'er-do-well grandfather (Alan Arkin), the audience will fall madly in love with this family and their big dreams. Even though the film has its touch of dark humor, it is heartwarming and appreciative of togetherness without being too cliché.

This 800-mile trip on a broken-down, yellow bus will take its viewers on an uproar of laughter. The Hoovers encounter ugliness, disappointment, and automotive dilemmas from Albuquerque to Redondo Beach in this fresh comedy. As the family unwillingly accompanies Olive on this venture to the Little Miss Sunshine pageant, they struggle with their own dreams and the law in hysterical scenarios.

With familiar names such as Greg Kinnear, Steve Carell, and Toni Collette, you cannot expect a more phenomenal cast. Each portrayal is packed with a kick of zest. Their actions and expressions are what truly made this movie shine.

Whether you are in the mood for a pinch of life lessons or a shot of spontaneity, this movie will not disappoint. It is no wonder that this low-budget, independent film took in an estimated $27,963,000 at the box office along with its rare standing ovation at the Sundance Film Festival.