Getting Grace (2018)

I love this movie so much

The acting in this movie is really good.

A clunky actioner with a handful of cool moments.

The movie really just wants to entertain people.

I laughed. I cried. What a powerful story! You will need to see it again and again!

Her name is Grace, a sickly misfit teen who brings life back into a crotchety funeral director. Easily my favorite so far this year, this an independent film showing now that won't get the attention it deserves. Description is difficult, which points to it's originality. The first half is hilarious. The second is half heart rending. I was dubious how comedy could be found in a subject matter like this, but the movie somehow strikes its' humorous tone without being irreverent or inappropriate. The comedy is derived from the pesky antics, sarcastic quips, and quirky personality of the title character, a natural comedienne. Her contagious charm and inner strength touches the lives of those around her, including her own struggling mother, charismatic celebrity charlatan, and fellow child patients. Each was missing something in their life, yet also had something to offer. They just needed something, or someone, to bring it out. I didn't want to leave these characters behind as I left the theater. Instead, I wanted to invite them for coffee. Tears will flow at the end, both of joy and sorrow. (The depicted plight of cancer victims makes for sensitive viewing. Some characters make it through, others do not.) Grace reminds us that good and bad can be found at every turn, so while bad things can happen to good people, grace can be found.

A feel good movie about cancer? Yes. Sensitively directed by veteran actor Daniel Roebuck and superbly acted by his talented cast, Getting Grace took me on a surprising ride. One moment I was welling up with tears; the next moment, I was laughing out loud. To see how Grace's courage positively transforms the lives of those she loves is inspiring to behold. Strongly recommend!

This is a film that I encourage you to seek out. More than a film, it is an experience that will touch you. It is inspiring and heartfelt, made with obvious love from all involved. Madelyn Dundon gives an incredibly real breakout performance as Grace. You believe her immediately and that is sooooo important to this journey. Director/co-writer/producer and actor Daniel Roebuck makes his character equally real and likable, and makes an incredible directorial debut. This is an honest, humorous and ultimately uplifting film without an agenda other than to make you think, smile and believe in the richness of life, whatever it may give us.