"Go for Grandma": An Enchanting Homage to 80's Fantasy Films Emerges as the Season's Surprise Hit
August 4, 2023
In an era dominated by reboots and sequels, "Go for Grandma" — a heartwarming and imaginative tale of resilience, love, and the power of storytelling — stands out as a refreshing change of pace. The movie, inspired by iconic '80s fantasy films, weaves a magical journey into the mind of a young boy escaping his traumatic home life through his vivid imagination.
The film follows 7-year-old Lucian (an engaging performance by Austin Schoenfeld) as he navigates his challenging relationship with his emotionally unstable mother, Blake (portrayed with a painful intensity by Justine Lupe). Despite his tender years, Lucian bears the brunt of his mother's resentment, a result of his close ties with his father and her estranged mother (Amy Madigan in a memorable supporting role).
Lucian's solace comes in the form of stories delivered via walkie-talkie by his doting grandmother, banned from visiting by the volatile Blake. These fables, ranging from the whimsical escapades of a Falkor-like dragon to a dramatic sea storm, serve as metaphors, helping Lucian to process his unsettling reality.
But "Go for Grandma" is far from a dark and despairing tale. The film is filled with childlike wonder and bold strokes of imagination, beautifully rendered through exceptional CGI work reminiscent of the magic of '80s classics. It is a testament to the power of creativity in navigating the darkest corners of life and harnesses the restorative power of imagination and storytelling as a form of therapy.
As the narrative unfolds, Lucian's fanciful mental landscapes become even more crucial. In a gripping climax, when his home life takes a distressingly dark turn, Lucian turns to his oceanic imagination, his sanctuary, to confront the demons haunting his mother. The boy's internal universe emerges as his ultimate weapon, offering solace, strength, and healing in the face of adversity.
"Go for Grandma" is a triumphant tribute to the fantastic films of the '80s, effortlessly blending whimsical flights of fantasy with the harsh realities of a troubled family dynamic. The film emphasizes the redemptive power of storytelling and imagination in the face of emotional adversity, wrapping audiences in a heartwarming and enchanting journey of resilience.
