His sexuality is not an "issue" in the movie, which is a relief. Ironically, even though Frank is the one with the wrist bandages, he proves to be the most normal one of the group.

That's exactly how the filmmakers, and Carell, portray Frank's sexuality: as normal. Nor is he the token gay guy. He's not there to fill a "gay void" or add a dollop of diversity. He doesn't fit stereotypes of flamboyance or cattiness. The only one who doesn't like him (in the beginning) is Richard. And that's not because he's gay, but because he attempted suicide thereby marking himself as a quitter.

Frank's character is the one who introduces us to the Hoovers. He's also the catalyst for the family to change. Without his entrance into the clan, everything would continue going down the wrong path. Frank helps bring everyone together, even in the most subtle ways.

He sparks a relationship with Dwayne, becoming the role model Dwayne so dearly needs in his life. He helps Olive take herself less seriously. He helps Sheryl calm down, giving her unconditional love as her brother.

Frank is the voice of reason, and you wonder how the family survived without him.

Frank's relationship with his graduate student (who we meet in one scene but whose picture is seen throughout the film) is not treated as something special or unusual. It's seen as a normal relationship, and when he is dumped it is obvious that Frank is just as hurt as someone in a "straight" relationship would have been.

True, he attempted suicide, but that has more to do with his own life and problems, not his sexuality. The fact that Frank actually had a boyfriend and isn't yet another neutered, forever single stereotype is something else refreshing to see.

What's even better is that Steve Carell is playing the role. He doesn't seem the obvious choice. A role such as this usually goes to an unknown actor or one of lesser stature than Carell. In addition, he's not exactly attractive. He's hairy. He's awkward. To put it simply, he's average. But Carell makes Frank one of the gang, even just a background player at times. He makes him vulnerable, relatable, kind, and loveable.

Many other actors (Will Ferrell comes to mind) might have overdone the role, playing Frank so over-the-top that he would have been nothing more than a caricature. Carell brings humanity and reality to the role, proving he's more than just the overbearing, self-absorbed boss he plays on The Office. I expect an Oscar in his future.

Despite plenty of obstacles, the Hoover family makes it to the pageant. They do it for Olive and despite themselves. When Olive takes the stage, the movie shows us the surreal world of young beauty pageants that is disturbing to say the least. Little girls getting fake tans, walking around in bikini bathing suits, getting made up to look like dolls. It's so disgusting you can't look away. In true Hoover fashion, Olive has a surprise for everyone (which we won't reveal) but which brings the family even closer than expected.

By the film's end, each Hoover has evolved into the person they should be. Dwayne is speaking. Olive is happy. Frank is at peace. Richard has given up the act of always being happy and Sheryl has calmed down. Even Grandpa becomes just good old Grandpa. Though you know there will still be bumps in the road, the Hoovers have a good future in front of them.

Little Miss Sunshine is the perfect antithesis to the summer blockbuster. It has more depth and quality than Pirates of the Caribbean, X-Men, and Superman combined. The characters are real. The situations are both hysterical and touching (at one point, they even steal a corpse!).

Every character is given their own story, and when the family comes together, it leaves you feeling warm and sweet. The Hoovers prove to be the modern day family. The anti-Cleavers, if you will. By the end, you can't help but wish you were a Hoover too.

Little Miss Sunshine is currently in limited release and opens nationwide August 25th.

Page 1 / 2 - Home