Carolina (Julia Stiles) might be termed the sane one in an Addams-like family. Her grandmother (Shirley MacLaine) is notorious for doing and saying what she likes in their southern town. Sister Georgia is single and pregnant from a one night stand and sister Maine is a rocking horse-riding, lottery obsessed girl. The family's father is a semi-recovering alcoholic who turned to drink after the mother's death. Oh, and Aunt Marilyn is a madam. Only Carolina seems to be the white bread type, having a job in television and a British businessman for a boyfriend. However, Carolina has a long relationship with the handsome writer next door, Albert (Alessandro Nivola). It has been a friendship; could it ever be anything else? Amid the chaos of a very strange family situation, a nice love story emerges. Stiles is wonderful as the beautiful young lady who loves her family but hopes to live a more sedate life. MacLaine is really quite nice, also, as the eccentric grandmother and the other cast members are fine. However, the story is a stroll down life in extremes, careening from one bizarre incident to another. Maybe there are families like this one but, if you ever meet one, run for your life. That said, if you wish to locate another sorta-romcom for the evening, you might try this one, especially if you have seen most of the other light comedy-and-romance films that are out there.
26 Reviews
Cheesy but cute
HotToastyRag26 June 2017
The "troubled teen gets tough love" genre is a well-loved genre, ever since The Blackboard Jungle in 1955. I watch a lot of these movies, and Carolina is a pretty good one.
The troubled teen in this one is actually an adult, but it's still the same type of movie. Julia Stiles, whose "too cool for school" attitude is perfectly plastered on her perpetually sourpuss face, is mad at her family because they're eccentric and she's trying to mature into a mainstream young woman. Her name is Carolina because everyone in her family is named after the state in which they were born, and she despises her name just as much as her eccentric relatives.
If you've seen a lot of these movies, like I have, you pretty much know the formula. Carolina doesn't stray too far from the typical mold, but if you're in the mood for a little cheese in your movies and relatives who are too wacky to be realistic, give this one a whirl.
The troubled teen in this one is actually an adult, but it's still the same type of movie. Julia Stiles, whose "too cool for school" attitude is perfectly plastered on her perpetually sourpuss face, is mad at her family because they're eccentric and she's trying to mature into a mainstream young woman. Her name is Carolina because everyone in her family is named after the state in which they were born, and she despises her name just as much as her eccentric relatives.
If you've seen a lot of these movies, like I have, you pretty much know the formula. Carolina doesn't stray too far from the typical mold, but if you're in the mood for a little cheese in your movies and relatives who are too wacky to be realistic, give this one a whirl.
Another fab Shirley MacLaine performance
irish238 June 2009
This picture is billed as a romantic comedy but it's really more about family and how that can affect romances. While this is definitely a fluff piece, Shirley MacLaine's character and acting knock it out of the ballpark.
Julia Stiles, by contrast, is wooden and unsympathetic in her role as the female romantic lead. I kept wanting to see her in some 1970's BBC drama where emotionless, physically dull acting was more the rage.
Azura Skye does a nice turn in the predictable role of "the trashy sister" who gets pregnant after a one-night stand. Randy Quaid and the rest of the cast practically disappear except to act as foils to MacLaine's outrageous "tough love/live life my own way" Grandma.
This is not great art or even great romantic comedy. You won't need to see it more than once. Watch it for MacLaine's performance and be ready to fluff your way through the rest!
Julia Stiles, by contrast, is wooden and unsympathetic in her role as the female romantic lead. I kept wanting to see her in some 1970's BBC drama where emotionless, physically dull acting was more the rage.
Azura Skye does a nice turn in the predictable role of "the trashy sister" who gets pregnant after a one-night stand. Randy Quaid and the rest of the cast practically disappear except to act as foils to MacLaine's outrageous "tough love/live life my own way" Grandma.
This is not great art or even great romantic comedy. You won't need to see it more than once. Watch it for MacLaine's performance and be ready to fluff your way through the rest!
Simple entertainment at it's best and an unexpectedly enjoyable movie
frostedpinkcupcake27 March 2004
Warning: Spoilers
*Possible spoilers*
I don't know what movie the original comment was watching, but I laughed all through this movie. Some movies are not for thinking, they're for watching, and having fun! This is one of those movies... I enjoyed the family interaction ( didn't seem canned, or phony), and the comedy throughout the film was capturing. I found myself waiting for the next shoe to drop. The best thing about this movie is that it actually held an ideal of family values that most movies these days seem to eager to forget about. Amazing, Hollywood really CAN make a movie without much swearing and sex, that is great fun to watch, and also pass on a little life lesson in the process. I'd like to preface any comments with the fact that I liked this movie. It was a good watch, and I really enjoyed it. I was never much of a Julia Stiles fan, but after watching this one it's impossible not to love that girl :o)
I can't stand the people on the international movie database that write these over-analytical, Hollywood b******t analyses; so I'll keep this one simple and to the point: Solid romantic plot, fun dialog, and interesting characters.
I also had fun recognizing some of the people in this film who play lesser roles, who are more notable from other movies/television shows (i.e. Penny from Blue Crush, Samara from The Ring, Sarah from Save the Last Dance, Stifler's mom from American Pie, just to name a few). I don't want to brand any of these actors with these roles; it's just that I'd find myself watching and go: I know that person!I just finished seeing Carolina for the first time and my first impressions for this movie are good. I liked this movie for it's simplicity and well written monologues which entangle you in it's story line enough to take you through the entire movie. It's young cast is good enough to portray a somewhat lost teenager in what would be best described as "small town U.S.A." All except for the sometimes over played, but not this time, feisty adventurous girl, portrayed by Julia Stiles. I did though have a problem with the way the movie develops as it seems to leave as hanging awaiting for a "and they lived happily ever after" tag line but then again I guess that was implied in the movie itself. I'd definitely recommend it. I just finished watching it and I can't wait to see it again.This movie was, not to sound cliche, but a breath of fresh air. It was packed with good-natured humor and real family values. It proved to put family before other things. This film had really no foul language or anything that made me shift in my seat while I wished my brother hadn't heard that. No, this film was a comfortable, funny, and all around good movie for everyone. The ending could have been taken up a notch, but you can't expect perfection. When we don't have to pay more than the price of a movie ticket to experience a wildly eccentric family, then it's tons of fun. So, first off, yes, I have to admit that the mere fact that the movie centers around an eccentric, crazy, weird family makes it enjoyable from the start. I was almost instanteously engaged until over halfway through the movie trying to keep track, and with such a talented and diverse ensemble, I enjoyed watching all of the development, especially the Grandma (Shirley MacLaine), the woman who kind of tied the whole story together. They even found room for overrated stars as one-note characters among the others. I also think that underneath all the comedy there was a lot of moral value within the conflicts between and Carolina (Julia Stiles) and her family and all those people trying to tear it apart.
Well, that's all I got here...give it a watch :o)
I don't know what movie the original comment was watching, but I laughed all through this movie. Some movies are not for thinking, they're for watching, and having fun! This is one of those movies... I enjoyed the family interaction ( didn't seem canned, or phony), and the comedy throughout the film was capturing. I found myself waiting for the next shoe to drop. The best thing about this movie is that it actually held an ideal of family values that most movies these days seem to eager to forget about. Amazing, Hollywood really CAN make a movie without much swearing and sex, that is great fun to watch, and also pass on a little life lesson in the process. I'd like to preface any comments with the fact that I liked this movie. It was a good watch, and I really enjoyed it. I was never much of a Julia Stiles fan, but after watching this one it's impossible not to love that girl :o)
I can't stand the people on the international movie database that write these over-analytical, Hollywood b******t analyses; so I'll keep this one simple and to the point: Solid romantic plot, fun dialog, and interesting characters.
I also had fun recognizing some of the people in this film who play lesser roles, who are more notable from other movies/television shows (i.e. Penny from Blue Crush, Samara from The Ring, Sarah from Save the Last Dance, Stifler's mom from American Pie, just to name a few). I don't want to brand any of these actors with these roles; it's just that I'd find myself watching and go: I know that person!I just finished seeing Carolina for the first time and my first impressions for this movie are good. I liked this movie for it's simplicity and well written monologues which entangle you in it's story line enough to take you through the entire movie. It's young cast is good enough to portray a somewhat lost teenager in what would be best described as "small town U.S.A." All except for the sometimes over played, but not this time, feisty adventurous girl, portrayed by Julia Stiles. I did though have a problem with the way the movie develops as it seems to leave as hanging awaiting for a "and they lived happily ever after" tag line but then again I guess that was implied in the movie itself. I'd definitely recommend it. I just finished watching it and I can't wait to see it again.This movie was, not to sound cliche, but a breath of fresh air. It was packed with good-natured humor and real family values. It proved to put family before other things. This film had really no foul language or anything that made me shift in my seat while I wished my brother hadn't heard that. No, this film was a comfortable, funny, and all around good movie for everyone. The ending could have been taken up a notch, but you can't expect perfection. When we don't have to pay more than the price of a movie ticket to experience a wildly eccentric family, then it's tons of fun. So, first off, yes, I have to admit that the mere fact that the movie centers around an eccentric, crazy, weird family makes it enjoyable from the start. I was almost instanteously engaged until over halfway through the movie trying to keep track, and with such a talented and diverse ensemble, I enjoyed watching all of the development, especially the Grandma (Shirley MacLaine), the woman who kind of tied the whole story together. They even found room for overrated stars as one-note characters among the others. I also think that underneath all the comedy there was a lot of moral value within the conflicts between and Carolina (Julia Stiles) and her family and all those people trying to tear it apart.
Well, that's all I got here...give it a watch :o)
A pleasant movie to watch
wind-talker24 June 2004
Warning: Spoilers
*may contain a few spoilers*
Carolina is an unusual movie (and character) in the fact that even in a family as dysfunctional as hers is, family always comes first. Rather than be weighted down by her past Carolina does her utmost to rise above it and make her life a bit more complete than the fractured past which she had grown up with, all the while she (and others) continue to make the same mistakes that got them there to begin with.
Overall the movie had a decent flow, and outstanding acting by all parties involved. There were a few areas it lacked in, one of the most notable was the ending which was as fractured as Carolina's family was. There were too many paths revealed without anything coming to fruition. There was also the possibility of more conflict (which was implied by the families action) which was never capitalized on. Apart from the fact that family stayed together, it failed to show any other values you would hope from a family movie. Instead you see each person falling into the same mistakes that their parents had without truly overcoming anything.
Overall it is very watchable, but expect to be left with a few questions at the end.
Carolina is an unusual movie (and character) in the fact that even in a family as dysfunctional as hers is, family always comes first. Rather than be weighted down by her past Carolina does her utmost to rise above it and make her life a bit more complete than the fractured past which she had grown up with, all the while she (and others) continue to make the same mistakes that got them there to begin with.
Overall the movie had a decent flow, and outstanding acting by all parties involved. There were a few areas it lacked in, one of the most notable was the ending which was as fractured as Carolina's family was. There were too many paths revealed without anything coming to fruition. There was also the possibility of more conflict (which was implied by the families action) which was never capitalized on. Apart from the fact that family stayed together, it failed to show any other values you would hope from a family movie. Instead you see each person falling into the same mistakes that their parents had without truly overcoming anything.
Overall it is very watchable, but expect to be left with a few questions at the end.
Frustrating...but good
kim_smoak22 December 2010
Warning: Spoilers
This was an unexpected romantic movie
that I think was suppose to be a romantic comedy. I'm not exactly sure what went wrong in the comedy part, but the movie itself was good. I was frustrated with Carolina's view of her family
and how she didn't see the man who loved her so much right in front of her. I mean...she had a HOT guy best friend who clearly had feelings for her...but she keep looking for love everywhere else. Her friend already accepted her weird family...and loved Carolina for who she was inside and out. He confessed his love to her, and she abandoned him for...what seemed like in the movie, years. Then, she finally comes to her senses, and tells him she can't live without him, but it seems like it's too late...until he unexpectedly showed up at her family thanksgiving dinner like he always does, and takes her back. Oh...romance...I love it.
For daily movie reviews visit: kimsmoak.com now!
For daily movie reviews visit: kimsmoak.com now!
Charming
nikafgi30 November 2004
Not a masterpiece, even a great movie, but very worth watching. Quite good performances too, specially from MacLaine, as always, and Stiles, who deserves a challenging role right now, and not two scenes in The Bourne Supremacy. And well, it's that an American romantic comedy doesn't treat the public as stupids, which isn't completely surprising, but it's great to know that, sometimes, they can make it better than anyone. Because it wouldn't be so charming if it were an European film, it would be more cynical... (despite the fact that Carolina is directed by a dutch woman).
Anyway, in a perfect world, there would be more movies like this one.
Anyway, in a perfect world, there would be more movies like this one.
Sometimes hard to take comedy/drama about a too unbelievably eccentric family.
mark.waltz12 January 2013
Warning: Spoilers
Some films play the eccentricity card too much in their attempts to be "different", and from the moment you meet Shirley MacLaine's Grandma Millicent Mirabeau, you will find yourself torn between whether or not you like her or find her a total pain in the butt. This wacky woman is her attempt to be Auntie Mame, but she actually comes closer to Roz Russell's absurd mother in "Oh, Dad, Poor Dad...". Whether locking herself in a dressing room over the fact that a sale on a VCR ended (and asking her granddaughter for toilet paper!) or constantly berating her grieving widowed son for neglecting his three daughters, MacLaine takes every single eccentric character she's ever played and pulls an Emeril ("Takin' it up a notch!") to create the first on-screen granny that needs a "time out". Yes, this grandmother can certainly say she lives life to the fullest, using clichés like "Two tacos short of a combination plate" and "You live, and then you die" to express her independent view of life. She's got a flashy wardrobe, isn't afraid to express every element of her soul to the girls she is raising, yet somehow seems more over-medicated than just "feisty". And yet, in spite of that, you can't take your eyes off of her, as if MacLaine was being possessed by the spirits of Bette Davis, Katharine Hepburn, Tallulah Bankhead or any other eccentric actress that had passed before her.
If MacLaine's character does anything, it is the fact that she exposes what the new generation gap has become. Today's youth (besides taking themselves and life too seriously) are afraid of living to the fullest, walking in their own paths and trying new things in fear of rejection of a technology obsessed society. It shows that the rules have switched to where the young are seeming older than their youthful ages, while the older folks are simply marching to their own drumbeat as if their evian bottles contained champagne rather than water. Take MacLaine's three granddaughters, all named after states (with the exception of the state of confusion), all neurotic beyond reasonable belief. Oldest granddaughter Julia Stiles lives with a man that seems perfect for her, yet they are only friends, and he is unapologetically heterosexual. (Apparently cool enough to grab two "Cleaning Queens of West Hollywood" to take care of an after Christmas dinner mess). Middle granddaughter Azura Skye is pregnant but in denial of who the father is, while youngest Mika Boorem is obsessed with the lottery and dresses up provocatively to try to appear over 18 in order to buy a ticket. Needy messes all, they defy likability in spite of loving their grandmother and just cause head-scratching when trying to find one quality to even care about these character's lives.
Ultimately, there seems to be little point here other than showing the comedy of the absurd that reveals little warmth about identifying with a new generation in the "Me!" era. Alessandro Nivola is charming as Stiles' roommate, and Edward Atterton has no real purpose in being there as the British date whom Stiles considers like an Italian suit she has no place to wear it to. Then, Jennifer Coolidge, as MacLaine's much younger Madame sister, comes in, serving no purpose other than to add more unappealing eccentricity into the convoluted mix. Randy Quaid is poorly treated as the troubled son/father who gets bashed every time he shows up. No wonder he only comes around to drop off his newest offspring. So in retrospect, this is a depressing view of family with comic and tragic elements, on the other side of the railroad tracks where they obviously rode in on the Bi-Polar Express.
If MacLaine's character does anything, it is the fact that she exposes what the new generation gap has become. Today's youth (besides taking themselves and life too seriously) are afraid of living to the fullest, walking in their own paths and trying new things in fear of rejection of a technology obsessed society. It shows that the rules have switched to where the young are seeming older than their youthful ages, while the older folks are simply marching to their own drumbeat as if their evian bottles contained champagne rather than water. Take MacLaine's three granddaughters, all named after states (with the exception of the state of confusion), all neurotic beyond reasonable belief. Oldest granddaughter Julia Stiles lives with a man that seems perfect for her, yet they are only friends, and he is unapologetically heterosexual. (Apparently cool enough to grab two "Cleaning Queens of West Hollywood" to take care of an after Christmas dinner mess). Middle granddaughter Azura Skye is pregnant but in denial of who the father is, while youngest Mika Boorem is obsessed with the lottery and dresses up provocatively to try to appear over 18 in order to buy a ticket. Needy messes all, they defy likability in spite of loving their grandmother and just cause head-scratching when trying to find one quality to even care about these character's lives.
Ultimately, there seems to be little point here other than showing the comedy of the absurd that reveals little warmth about identifying with a new generation in the "Me!" era. Alessandro Nivola is charming as Stiles' roommate, and Edward Atterton has no real purpose in being there as the British date whom Stiles considers like an Italian suit she has no place to wear it to. Then, Jennifer Coolidge, as MacLaine's much younger Madame sister, comes in, serving no purpose other than to add more unappealing eccentricity into the convoluted mix. Randy Quaid is poorly treated as the troubled son/father who gets bashed every time he shows up. No wonder he only comes around to drop off his newest offspring. So in retrospect, this is a depressing view of family with comic and tragic elements, on the other side of the railroad tracks where they obviously rode in on the Bi-Polar Express.
Strong acting and memorable lines
rondaddy18 January 2004
This movie has been a long time coming. After waiting a year for Miramax to release it in the US, I picked up the DVD via Canada. Although not perfect, it was sweet and very well acted. Ms. Stiles continues her skill of creating a new personality for each of her screen appearances, and she has NEVER looked better. Her range is amazing. She once again delivers a very powerful performance. In fact, all of the actors were impressive. Shirley MacLaine's role is more than a cameo, and she delivers. Randy Quaid was a pleasant surprise. In a role where he could easily have gone over the top; he didn't. Azura Skye did a great job and had several very memorable moments. I look forward to seeing her again. The child actress chosen to play the young Carolina is an uncanny young version of Ms. Stiles. Along with the acting, the dialog was consistently smart and sharp. Miramax should release and promote this film for no other reason than it contains some of the all-time great movie lines. Not every aspect or scene worked for me, but most did. I enjoyed and recommend it.
Fabulous depiction of the interactions and lives of two best friends.
nortonj5 February 2005
Another magnificent film from Stiles, and another Film Festival movie. I waited and waited for this film to be released in Region 1 so that I could snag it, and then promptly bought it from Canada. Carolina (Stiles) is gloriously and comically oblivious to Albert's (Nivola) obvious love for her. You'll laugh at Grandma Mirabeau's (MacLaine) outrageous humor, you'll sigh with Albert each time Carolina doesn't see what's obviously there, and you'll rage with them when they lash out in anger for lack of a better defense. But, it's a movie after all, so you'll be smiling in the end. It's a wonderful film that had my attention from the very first scene. One of the best romantic comedies I've seen in years.
Just the Movie I Needed to See
kfxston17 June 2005
I had never heard of this movie but rented it because I thought the description sounded interesting. My husband and I loved it so much that we ended up watching it three times before returning the movie. I haven't usually been a fan of Julia Stiles' but I did very much enjoy her acting in this movie and I also thought Shirley McLean and Jennifer Coolidge were great. Whoever was in charge of casting really knew how to do their job well. I have decided to buy the DVD if I can find it. I do have a question that I hope someone might be able to answer. In the movie, there is a little dog with cute black ears that belongs to Shirley McLean's character. Does anyone know what breed this dog is? I would really appreciate knowing what kind of dog this is as we would love to buy one just like it.
Awesome. Well done Julia
cineasta4518 November 2003
I love this movie. I love Julia Stiles. I love her performance. I've seen many movies from her and i think she is going to be one of the best actress in a nearly future. If she thinks twice the movies in which is gonna take part, she will be the best. I know many people won't see this movie but this kind of movies are those which make American movies great. Here in Spain almost everyone think that American movies are those with huge budget and only have special effects but these things are not needed to make a good one.Instead of watching matrix revolutions please trust me because "Carolina " will not let you down.
Watched first because I am a fan of cast members.
Mistrcoffe5 November 2012
I enjoyed it because it is a great movie. I guess as I get older I am also getting more sentimental, and my tastes seem to be getting more eclectic. I have really begun to enjoy more independent films, and enjoyed this one in particular.
I had to chuckle about the whole spoiler thing because the base plot is as predictable as it gets, but it is still a pleasure watching it unfold.
The acting is particularly good at many levels. I planned to name the actors, reference what I had seen them in before and then say why I liked them in this, but I will spare you my digressive drivel. Hell the actors are listed above and links to all they have done.
I would say try it whether you are an Indy fan or not. It is time spent well spent.
I had to chuckle about the whole spoiler thing because the base plot is as predictable as it gets, but it is still a pleasure watching it unfold.
The acting is particularly good at many levels. I planned to name the actors, reference what I had seen them in before and then say why I liked them in this, but I will spare you my digressive drivel. Hell the actors are listed above and links to all they have done.
I would say try it whether you are an Indy fan or not. It is time spent well spent.
One word: Shirley Maclaine
Black_Man2424 December 2007
Warning: Spoilers
Shirley Maclaine, without a doubt, makes the best quirky characters. Her expressions, timing, all of this comes into play with Carolina. Julia Stiles is a very good actress and she plays the part of Carolina, the girl who has all the answers to love and can't see it in front of her.
Shirley Maclaine, however, steals this movie. From the way she answers her phone ("State your business") to putting up with the Mirabeau craziness. In fact, she is the cause of it!! Then the birth scene is priceless. I would love to have a Grandmother like that, though my mother is fast becoming a Grandma Mirabeau.
I think this movie deserved more than just a direct-to-video. Movies like these are rare. All we have is a lot of trash. Over complex, overrated by the critics, etc. I loved this precisely because of its quirkiness.
Shirley Maclaine, however, steals this movie. From the way she answers her phone ("State your business") to putting up with the Mirabeau craziness. In fact, she is the cause of it!! Then the birth scene is priceless. I would love to have a Grandmother like that, though my mother is fast becoming a Grandma Mirabeau.
I think this movie deserved more than just a direct-to-video. Movies like these are rare. All we have is a lot of trash. Over complex, overrated by the critics, etc. I loved this precisely because of its quirkiness.
Horrible movie
TallPineTree2 February 2007
Poor Shirley MacLaine. I have seen her in other movies (just today "Guarding Tess) so I know she can be good, but judging by her acting in this film one would think she is a bad actress. Here she plays another in a long line of eccentric characters. The problem is she is no longer in her 20s and can be cute and kooky as in "The Apartment", "What a Way to Go!", and "Sweet Charity".
Judging from the entire movie, the movie script fails her as the script is terrible. However Ms. MacLaine has been in the movie business since 1955 and has appeared in a number of excellent movies so she at least could have made her role good in this bad movie. Nope. Not in this movie. Take for instance the scene where she talks to the screen in the movie theater and then harangues the young usher who comes to ask her to be quiet. Dreadful performance in a dreadful scene. It is also an unnecessary scene as we already know MacLaine's character is embarrassing to her granddaughters.
Julia Stiles again plays a young uptight woman who needs to learn to loosen up. Ms. Stiles has acted since 1994, many years prior to this 2003 movie. She has experience playing this role before, i.e. in "10 Things I Hate About You" from 1999. Stiles also could have brought something interesting to her role here. She didn't.
The characters in this movie were all eccentric characters who were one dimensional and annoying, and not real at all.
Stiles played an uptight woman who never had more than three dates with one person. Her best friend is man (she has no women friends) who lives near her apartment. He writes romance novels under a fake name, has a crush on her, and she has no idea. Duh. As the best male friend in movies is often stereotypically a gay man, I initially thought he was gay. When he hired the gay housecleaning duo to clean her apartment, I was sure he was gay. Speaking of the gay house cleaners, talk about an offensive stereotype.
Anyway, her best friend is not gay, and although he claims to understand her well and can predict she will act a certain way - and tells her so, when she does act the way he knew she would, he gets upset. Huh? All a plot device to have "boy lose girl".
I don't think Stiles, MacLaine, or most any of the actors, cared for this movie. They must have been in it either because of an obligation or they needed the money.
Watching this movie is a waste of time, and I bet the actors wish they hadn't wasted their time making this movie.
Judging from the entire movie, the movie script fails her as the script is terrible. However Ms. MacLaine has been in the movie business since 1955 and has appeared in a number of excellent movies so she at least could have made her role good in this bad movie. Nope. Not in this movie. Take for instance the scene where she talks to the screen in the movie theater and then harangues the young usher who comes to ask her to be quiet. Dreadful performance in a dreadful scene. It is also an unnecessary scene as we already know MacLaine's character is embarrassing to her granddaughters.
Julia Stiles again plays a young uptight woman who needs to learn to loosen up. Ms. Stiles has acted since 1994, many years prior to this 2003 movie. She has experience playing this role before, i.e. in "10 Things I Hate About You" from 1999. Stiles also could have brought something interesting to her role here. She didn't.
The characters in this movie were all eccentric characters who were one dimensional and annoying, and not real at all.
Stiles played an uptight woman who never had more than three dates with one person. Her best friend is man (she has no women friends) who lives near her apartment. He writes romance novels under a fake name, has a crush on her, and she has no idea. Duh. As the best male friend in movies is often stereotypically a gay man, I initially thought he was gay. When he hired the gay housecleaning duo to clean her apartment, I was sure he was gay. Speaking of the gay house cleaners, talk about an offensive stereotype.
Anyway, her best friend is not gay, and although he claims to understand her well and can predict she will act a certain way - and tells her so, when she does act the way he knew she would, he gets upset. Huh? All a plot device to have "boy lose girl".
I don't think Stiles, MacLaine, or most any of the actors, cared for this movie. They must have been in it either because of an obligation or they needed the money.
Watching this movie is a waste of time, and I bet the actors wish they hadn't wasted their time making this movie.
Flipping aimless through TV channels..Saw Julia Stiles...Sat back and watched the rest.
the_in_box24 April 2006
Julia's face is what caught my eye and halted my aimlessly flipping through the TV channel with the remote. But it's the story line and characters that kept my interest going to the end even though I had missed the first third of the movie. I loved Shirley as the witty Grandma character. She does the part well, having seen her play similar role in "In her shoes" where she put on a great performance.
Liked the movie enough to look for the DVD if price is right and add it to my collection. Would actually rate it as 7.5, but because I found the 6.2 avg as under-rated, I rounded up.
It's a story about people, craziness, and the bond between family and friends. Didn't need the Kleenex box on this one. If you liked "In Her Shoes", you'll probably like "Carolina" too.
Liked the movie enough to look for the DVD if price is right and add it to my collection. Would actually rate it as 7.5, but because I found the 6.2 avg as under-rated, I rounded up.
It's a story about people, craziness, and the bond between family and friends. Didn't need the Kleenex box on this one. If you liked "In Her Shoes", you'll probably like "Carolina" too.
Carolina
babygirl25-214 February 2005
Warning: Spoilers
Hello again, I would like to comment on the movie Carolina, Presonaly i enjoyed the movie Carolina. I thought this movie was great. Not mini people care for this type of movie. I have always loved this type. so emotional, I like though type of movies. They make me cry. Crying is good for you when you do it for the right cough if you no what i mean. I usually start crying when i see someone else start crying, unless i am laughing so hard i start to cry. N-E-Ways back to the topic Carolina. This movie was great. I think that Julia Stiles did a awesome job in the movie Carolina. As for all her movies. She has always did sough a awesome job in all her movies. I give this movie a ten for excellent.
What a beautiful but normal firm.
margrette_lin22 May 2004
This movie leads us to see the true beauty inside human being whoever we missed everyday on the corner of street. It also gives us a little bit inside of the personality of the director. He does not like to judge people by their position, language or even the color of screen. I love the characteristics of Grandmother. Although she was not born in a rich and educational family, she had fate in her believes in God that every life is a gift. Her love is what we are missing and keep losing in our new generations.
But this firm also raised a interested question, a debatable and arguable that acted by the grandmother. She shared her past romance with her granddaughters. She dated whoever he is (marry or not) whenever she needed. I always believe that there is a line for everyone to follow which is our mortal sense. Can we just go date a man without thinking his situation? Can we just not to worry about the consequence that will be taken by our children silently and normally that we finally realized we are setting a bad example for them?
On the other hand, as the actor mentioned, live a little. That means life can be just that simple and easy. No need to setup a lots of rules to block us to enjoy everyday. But, without following the rules, we will not have a better view to examine ourselves what we are missing. It is difficult to maintain in the line but not be a prison of our mind.
I've watched this movie over 20 times but not tired of it. It reminds me a lots and refreshes me the life style.
But this firm also raised a interested question, a debatable and arguable that acted by the grandmother. She shared her past romance with her granddaughters. She dated whoever he is (marry or not) whenever she needed. I always believe that there is a line for everyone to follow which is our mortal sense. Can we just go date a man without thinking his situation? Can we just not to worry about the consequence that will be taken by our children silently and normally that we finally realized we are setting a bad example for them?
On the other hand, as the actor mentioned, live a little. That means life can be just that simple and easy. No need to setup a lots of rules to block us to enjoy everyday. But, without following the rules, we will not have a better view to examine ourselves what we are missing. It is difficult to maintain in the line but not be a prison of our mind.
I've watched this movie over 20 times but not tired of it. It reminds me a lots and refreshes me the life style.
Gorgeous!
msyben1 June 2004
A wonderful movie with great actresses! Julia Stiles is lovely in her part and very convincing. You feel with her in every moment. And, absolutely gorgeous, as always: Shirley MacLaine! She IS this unconventional, strong, crazy and heartful grandma, who holds everything together. Perfect for the role. In addition to that, the film has fantastic dialogues and a fine storyline. It's not a blockbuster but a jewel of American movie making. Unfortunately it was almost impossible to watch the movie in German cinemas. First it was only shown at a few big cinemas and second, even there it was canceled most of the time because of the start of "Troja". A real shame! So, if you couldn't see the movie, go and rent the video when it's out!
Great movie
hlpopovich6 May 2005
I loved Julia Stiles in "Save the Last Dance" and think she's a great actress. This was a great movie. I would tend to call it a "chick flick" - perfect for a girls' night together or an alone time movie. It's funny, endearing and will bring tears to your eyes. May be it's his sweet and lovable character, but I fell in love with Alessandro Nivola during this movie, too. It's not a Hollywood "blockbuster", but I don't like many of the movies the critics rave about. All the actors and actresses in this movie did a great job of playing real people instead of these fake characters in most of today's movies. Don't pass this one up on pay-per-view or at the rental place!!
This movie has it all!
wrecked2324 January 2004
This was a great movie about a girl and her eccentric grandma and was truly touching still keeping in mind the comedy. I thought it was wonderful and a movie for everyone to see and enjoy. The characters were well developed and all had great personalities. It had something that you don't see in movies anymore and was truly a breath of fresh air.
Julia Stiles and Shirley MacLaine
youngbooty15 April 2020
Julia Stiles and Shirley MacLaine is what made my mind up about watching this movie but everyone on the screen made this one silly wacky romantic and fun movie sure it might be one of those fun and predictable movies but the ending will change your mind about that wish they would have kept it as predictable as we thought it was going to be but with that said I still loved it and would watch it again check it out you won't be sorry
There's even a really cute little dog in it
rainbowzen9996 January 2013
I loved this movie. I wanted to say that first off. Shirley MacLaine...Azura Skye...Julia Stiles...Randy Quaid, with a wee dash of Jennifer Coolidge there at the end, what a wonderful cast. It's a small, quiet, sweet-natured, heartwarming film. There's even a really cute little dog in it. Watch it if you like feel-good movies.
At the very end of the film there's a teeny continuity glitch. A scene between Julia Stiles and...well you'll see who it's with if you watch it...ANYway Ms. Stiles' left arm is adorned with a beautiful wrist cuff...then the cuff is gone...then it's back...then it's gone again...and etc. It's only obvious because her wrist is right up there on the screen throughout that bit of scene. This boo boo does not hurt the movie in any way at all, I'm just saying, as a kind aside, that I couldn't help noticing that.
At the very end of the film there's a teeny continuity glitch. A scene between Julia Stiles and...well you'll see who it's with if you watch it...ANYway Ms. Stiles' left arm is adorned with a beautiful wrist cuff...then the cuff is gone...then it's back...then it's gone again...and etc. It's only obvious because her wrist is right up there on the screen throughout that bit of scene. This boo boo does not hurt the movie in any way at all, I'm just saying, as a kind aside, that I couldn't help noticing that.
A Delightful And Entertaining Family Movie.
DPerson62619 March 2005
Warning: Spoilers
This was the first time I have seen Julia Stiles and I was impressed with her portrayal of Carolina. She is of course very pretty, and for one so young she has a commanding presence on the screen. Her character is surely foreign to any of her life experiences but she demonstrates her acting abilities by making it totally believable. Shirley MacLaine plays the role of Carolina's grandmother, an irascible, bold and bawdy woman who meets life head on with courage and defiance. No one could perform the part any better, and I really can't imagine anyone else in the role. The tale is a love story involving Carolina, her family and her best friend who adores her.
The tale takes Carolina from childhood through early adulthood as she seeks balance in her life while looking for a "normal" guy. She thinks she has found one in the suave and debonair "Heath" (Edward Atterton), an Englishman, who sweeps her off her feet, only to disappoint her after meeting her eccentric family. Meanwhile, in the background is her best friend Albert (Allesandro Nivola), who is secretly in love with her. The story contains comedy, romance and pathos and will leave you satisfied. I didn't like the ending, it could have been better written, but the story is charming and entertaining and well worth watching, if for no other reason than to enjoy the performance of Julia Stiles.
The tale takes Carolina from childhood through early adulthood as she seeks balance in her life while looking for a "normal" guy. She thinks she has found one in the suave and debonair "Heath" (Edward Atterton), an Englishman, who sweeps her off her feet, only to disappoint her after meeting her eccentric family. Meanwhile, in the background is her best friend Albert (Allesandro Nivola), who is secretly in love with her. The story contains comedy, romance and pathos and will leave you satisfied. I didn't like the ending, it could have been better written, but the story is charming and entertaining and well worth watching, if for no other reason than to enjoy the performance of Julia Stiles.
Got to love Carolina
MrOvletine28 May 2023
This is a fun movie with a good cast. Julia Stiles is one of my favourites, I pretty much like anything she's in so it was no surprise that I liked this as well.
The whole cast is pretty funny, with special nod to Shirley McLaine as grandma. The whole family is a little on the crazy side.
It does sort of have a predictable ending. You can see it coming from a mile away, but that's okay.
If you like a light comedy with a good cast, you will enjoy Carolina. I also like that fact that part of the movie is shot in a less than stellar part of Las Angeles. You get to see a different side of the city.
The whole cast is pretty funny, with special nod to Shirley McLaine as grandma. The whole family is a little on the crazy side.
It does sort of have a predictable ending. You can see it coming from a mile away, but that's okay.
If you like a light comedy with a good cast, you will enjoy Carolina. I also like that fact that part of the movie is shot in a less than stellar part of Las Angeles. You get to see a different side of the city.
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