The Fabelmans (2022) ****

Steven Spielberg is still making captivating films in his seventies. I don't love every film he makes but I've loved his two most recent, including this one. The Fabelmans (2022) feels extra special because of its semi-autobiographical quality. Michelle Williams is always impressive in her roles and that is very much the case here. Paul Dano has more of a thankless part but his mannerisms suit his character just fine. Judd Hirsch makes a very memorable impression in his small role. Seth Rogan gives easily his best performance. And David Lynch as John Ford is simply some of the best casting in, for my money, one of the greatest cameos ever. I was less enamored with lead Gabrielle LaBelle but not enough to detract much from this truly heartfelt drama. Amidst all the familial turmoil, there is so much joy in watching Spielberg recreate his childhood in this fictionalized version. Life is cinema.



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