Where The Wild Things Are
Loosely based on the popular children’s book by Maurice Sendak, this is the story of Max (Max Records), a typical young boy with a wild imagination and a heart for adventure. After a falling out with his mom (Catherine Keener), Max runs away from home and is transported to a magical land, a land where the wild things are and where he can be king. Max quickly learns that being king isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, especially since all the wild things seem to be depressed, distant, and feel that their family is falling to pieces; an allegory for his own life at home, and a somber story. 
On a lighter note, cinematically the film is beautiful and costumes from Jim Henson’s workshop work perfectly to bring a realistic feel to the film. The voice talents for each of the wild things are also top notch, James Gandolfini, Paul Dano, Catherine O’Hara, and Forest Whitaker just to name a few. The score provided by Karen O is also notable and features enough obscure indie rock to make any college radio junkie feel right at home. Bottom line, if you’re seeking a feel good wild rumpus with the wild things you’ll need to search elsewhere. However, if you’re looking for a fascinating look into family dysfunction through the eyes of a child this is your ticket. Perhaps a matinee, Where the Wild Things Are is rated PG.