I have another favorite film on my list. One about love and its infinite power to heal. It's a story about how true love is unconditional, supportive, and awe-inspiring. It is Lars and the Real Girl, starring Ryan Gosling, who I have to give kudos for playing such an unconventional role.
Gosling plays Lars who is crippled by so many fears: social involvement, physical touching, emotional attachment. He runs from his pregnant sister-in-law, who literally tackles him just to invite him to dinner. He swallows words when female co-workers say hello. He withdraws into a dark garage for protection. Until he meets Bianca, a real doll.
When first watching this film, I thought at some moment in it that Lars would get enormous backlash for being involved with Bianca. The pessimistic, socialized part of me. We fear for ourselves and others when differences are evident in a person. In such a world of intolerance, surely Lars would get heckled or worse yet, tortured for his relationship with Bianca. But it never happens. An entire town of people embrace her and help this shy, scarred, young man leave a world of introversion in his own time and in his own way. It's beautiful. Absolutely beautiful.
It's a good ensemble of people that bring Bianca to life. Patricia Clarkson, who I have enjoyed in many things especially, The Station Agent (another film about a socially awkward person and tolerance) is in such a superb supporting role. The entire cast made this humble film into a tale of courage and love.
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