Cast: Brie Larson, Jacob Tremblay, William H. Macy, Joan Allen
In 250 Characters or Less:
Jack, an imaginative 5 year old, lived his whole life confined within a 10x10 room. Not wanting him to feel at a loss, his mother created a life for him, but soon decides it’s time to escape and show Jack all there is for him outside those walls.
What Works:
Brie Larson seems to be the front-runner to win best actress across the board this award season with her moving performance in Room. Larson and Jacob Tremblay carry this film in a way that is not only impressive, but heartbreaking as well. Kidnapped as a teenager, Larson’s character, Ma, is forced to live in a small room with her son, Jack (Jacob Tremblay). An inquisitive 5 year old with an active imagination, Ma creates a whole world within those four walls to make sure her son never feels as if he’s missing out on anything. But, as his curiosity grows and her resilience wanes, Ma decides it’s time to break out and risk everything in order to provide her son with the life he deserves…a life full of possibilities outside Room.
This film shows the extent of a mother’s love, as well as the strength of a young boy who wants to equally protect his mother. Ma was a character that did everything she could to protect her child from all internal and external dangers, but once she was back in the real world she found her will to survive was weakening. It was touching to see how the dynamic shifted and Jack’s strength is what helped Ma become accustomed to the outside world again. The film, though a bit monotonous at times, was overall a beautifully acted and compelling story of love, sacrifice and strength.
Be Aware:
The film begins a bit slow but finds it’s footing about a half hour in. The movie spends more time than necessary to show the life created within those four walls, but it allowed us to see how truly precious and impressionable young Jack is. After Ma and Jack escape and get to start the next chapter in their story, Larson really steps up and shows audiences her range and vulnerability.
Overall Grade: B+
L’inizio
In 250 Characters or Less:
L’inizio’s cozy atmosphere is reminiscent of the tight space Ma and Jack are confined to in Room. With its restaurant’s name meaning “the start,” it also brings new meaning to starting fresh much like Jack did after he left “Room.”
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| Courtesy of Liniziony.com |
What Works:
It is clear L’inizio takes pride in the preparation and presentation of its Italian-inspired food and also boasts a homey welcoming environment. Its farm to table fare of fresh local ingredients includes everything from smoked maple brook farm ricotta, to prosciutto di parma, to brussels sprouts salad, to fettuccine with kale. L’inizio’s chefs hail from Manhattan and have been able to replicate their success in Westchester County. In addition, the hospitality of its staff is second to none -- bringing a warmth to this charming Italian restaurant.
Be Aware:
Given the confined environment, scoring a table on a Friday or Saturday night is tough - and certainly frustrating. Opting to sit at the bar is also a challenge so it is recommended to check this restaurant out during the weekdays when the scene is a bit quieter and less chaotic. Steer clear for those suffering of claustrophobia. That said, don’t dismiss this quaint space for parties as there is a separate room available for special events.
Overall Grade: A
698 Sawmill River Road in Ardsley
(914) 693-5400
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