Benny & Joon has an interesting premise. A woman, Joon, who is severely mentally unwell, gains independence from Benny, her older brother and carer, who, in his way, does likewise. The arrival of Sam, Joon's interest ushers in improvement in her condition; she is much happier and safer having established a connection with a misfit like herself. Both siblings are spurred on by the arrival of their respective love interests, though neither can achieve what they want until Benny relinquishes control and admits they need the space to live for themselves.
Johnny Depp's performance in the movie is the best part of it. As he always does, he plays an oddball extremely well. The stunts and comedy routines are impressive, and he possesses a strange charm, which develops nicely as the film progresses.
The portrayal of mental illness in this movie can also be commended. It recognizes the challenges that come with severe conditions, but does not reduce Joon to a jabbering lunatic. There are moments of intelligence and perspicacity from her, as well as Sam, who also seems to struggle in a similar regard. Ultimately, the movie states that she is best off living of her own accord and is capable of a fairly normal life, with interests and genuine connections, all she needed was some respect as an adult. However, I do think this message would have come off better had she been more 'difficult' before Sam's arrival. The challenges she presents and faces aren't quite conveyed, and we don't see the extent of the siblings' frustrations that would warrant the rest of the movie. I also feel that Masterson's performance was shallow in places and lacking a dimension of emotion.
The film also does fairly well in the area of leaving things to the audience. While we don't really see a lot of Joon and Sam's bonding, there are hints of it, such as Sam bringing home a job application form so that Joon can help him fill it out. Later, he gets the job. This leaves room for the audience to imagine that they're doing well while left to themselves, while Benny's needs and overall sense of control are portrayed.
All in all, it's an enjoyable movie. There are funny moments, and the tone is kept pleasant. There is, however, some depth, respect, and meaning, saving it from being too mild. Perhaps a little more drama is needed - maybe a touch of real danger and harder emotion - but it's a good movie.
Johnny Depp's performance in the movie is the best part of it. As he always does, he plays an oddball extremely well. The stunts and comedy routines are impressive, and he possesses a strange charm, which develops nicely as the film progresses.
The portrayal of mental illness in this movie can also be commended. It recognizes the challenges that come with severe conditions, but does not reduce Joon to a jabbering lunatic. There are moments of intelligence and perspicacity from her, as well as Sam, who also seems to struggle in a similar regard. Ultimately, the movie states that she is best off living of her own accord and is capable of a fairly normal life, with interests and genuine connections, all she needed was some respect as an adult. However, I do think this message would have come off better had she been more 'difficult' before Sam's arrival. The challenges she presents and faces aren't quite conveyed, and we don't see the extent of the siblings' frustrations that would warrant the rest of the movie. I also feel that Masterson's performance was shallow in places and lacking a dimension of emotion.
The film also does fairly well in the area of leaving things to the audience. While we don't really see a lot of Joon and Sam's bonding, there are hints of it, such as Sam bringing home a job application form so that Joon can help him fill it out. Later, he gets the job. This leaves room for the audience to imagine that they're doing well while left to themselves, while Benny's needs and overall sense of control are portrayed.
All in all, it's an enjoyable movie. There are funny moments, and the tone is kept pleasant. There is, however, some depth, respect, and meaning, saving it from being too mild. Perhaps a little more drama is needed - maybe a touch of real danger and harder emotion - but it's a good movie.