Title: All Together Now
MPAA Rating: PG
Director: Brett Haley
Starring: Auli’i Cravalho, Rhenzy Feliz, Justina Machado
Runtime: 1 hr 32 mins

What It Is: Amber Appleton (Cravalho) is a young woman living place to place with her (somewhat reformed) alcoholic mother Becky (Machado). She’s the kind of young woman who’ll do anything for anyone. Her friends love her, her community loves her but her family can’t seem to catch a break. Since her father’s death early in her life, she’s dreamt of attending his alma mater. Perhaps become a musician like he was. However, as it does life gets in the way and tries to derail her promising future.

What We Think: Auli’i Cravalho is a star. This is something many would’ve told you after Moana. I wasn’t sold just yet. Now I am. She is the heart and soul of a film that brings absolute joy to one’s heart. In a year like this sometimes we just need a feel-good film. Who better to bring us that then Brett Haley. A man whose previous film “Hearts Beat Loud” and “I’ll See You in My Dreams” could both be considered crowd-pleasers. Much like those previous two efforts, the characters here feel real, there’s a positive human nature within the film that’s refreshing this year. This is a beautifully shot, wonderfully told story of humanity and the mark one person can leave on many.

Our Grade: B+, With a beautiful eye behind the lens and a bit of a heartwarming tale in front of it this is a rather surprisingly good picture. Netflix, as I’ve said numerous times, is so hit and miss. But if they continue to work with Haley (they also put out All the Bright Places earlier this year) they’ll be in more than capable hands. Check this one out. I mean it’s on Netflix so it’s easy money.