Birthmarked

The way this film began, I thought I might be onto something here with its dark humor leading the way. However, as the movie progressed it not only seemed to lose its focus but its humor as well.

Matthew Goode and Toni Collette star as two professors of science who obtain funding from a foundation led by Michael Smiley to use 2 adopted children plus their own soon-to-be baby in an experiment that they feel will prove no one must be a prisoner to their genetic make-up.

So for example, one of their adopted children, who comes from a family of "dolts" will be nurtured and home schooled so that she will become a "brainiac". In this controlled environment, they hope to confirm their hypotheses and eventually publish their findings.

However, aside from the fact that their children are treated like lab rats and are not told what is occurring, things will eventually go awry in various ways as does the movie itself, which seems to fall apart.

Overall, some of the very dark humor does work at times here, with Andreas Apergis quite funny as the assistant sent over by Smiley to help the parents. To note, for those concerned there's nudity in the film, as well as some rather explicit and suggestive sexual references. There's also what I thought was a rather despicable scene where an animal is killed in an experiment and a young girl is blamed for its death.

This film tells the story of a scientist couple raising three children.

The story is very interesting and very different from other films. The topic is unique, and the result is a thought provoking journey. It is funny and light hearted as well, given the ethical question marks of the situation. It is an enjoyable watch.

I stumbled upon this quirky comedy and stayed for the duration. Toni Collette is great as always. It was particularly fun to see Matthew Goode hiding his good looks behind a beard and big glasses. Don't think I've ever seem him so animated, not stuck playing the beautiful cool guy as usual.

The lakeside setting and period details were engaging. Music was good. Really an unexpected delight to watch this during stress covid19 times.

A great critique of society. today's families are actually experiencing such feelings. It is important for them to make children like themselves. Do not rely on low ratings. Keep the blu-ray, keep it. Toni Collette is awesome. the children actors are also very good. and Stephen Rennicks' music is tremendous.

It's not like you won't be able to see where this is going. But it's not about where it ends up (though there is a funny montage for that too, if you are open minded to it that is), but how it goes there. And while you can guess the twists and turns even before they come around the corner, the actors make it worth it all - more than decent performances.

Not Academy Award material, but still a really good movie that does entertain it a light way, that should be able to touch your heart. It's a bit crazy at times and it might seem to make no sense either at certain cornerstones. Stick with it though and just enjoy the ride if you can. The actors obviously had fun ...