'Away We Go' review Issue #40

Directed by Sam Mendes

By Erica Phillips
Published: August 1st, 2009 | 12:00am

Co-written by husband-and-wife literary duo Dave Eggers and Vendela Vida, Away We Go contains a distinct McSweeney’s flavor — quirky characters with good intentions and awkward conversations. Starring the likes of Maya Rudolph, John Krasinski, Catherine O’Hara, and Maggie Gyllenhaal, it would take a serious botch job to make this film anything but charming.

Burt (Krasinski) and Verona (Rudolph) are happily unmarried, adorably in love, and newly pregnant when they find themselves in a decidedly modern conundrum. In an attempt to figure out where they want to settle down as a family, the two freelancers (he’s an insurance agent and she’s a visual artist) travel to visit friends and family in several cities beginning somewhere in the Rocky Mountains.

Director Sam Mendes’ stark signature is apparent throughout while Alexi Murdoch’s sultry soundtrack provides a sad but forceful tone, suggesting that it may be time for these kids to grow up. Overwhelmingly sweet, Away We Go will supply giggles, a few tears, and a big cheesy grin as you exit the theater.