Features: DVD, Pan and Scan (TV Format), Widescreen, Dolby Digital (5.1), English, French, Spanish, Subtitled, Commentary, Trailers
Katie Holmes is terrific (People) as the quirky black sheep of her family in this delightful comedy-drama that sparkles with acerbic wit, original characters and genuine heart (Variety). Patricia Clarkson gives a career-making performance (Boxoffice), and the entire cast is inspired (Film Threat) in this moving, hilarious comedy (People).Rebellious daughter April Burns (Holmes) has offered to host an elaborate Thanksgiving dinner for her suburban clan in her grubby Lower East Side apartment. But her attempts to create an unforgettable feast go awry when she discovers that her oven doesn t work. Now, as her weary family makes its way to the city, April must rely on the kindness of strangers to pull off the perfect meal and the perfect memory.Special Features: Audio Commentary by Writer-Director Peter Hedges All the Pieces Together: FeaturetteOriginal Theatrical TrailerSystem Requirements: Running Time 80 MinFormat: DVD MOVIE
Editor's Note
Katie Holmes is outstanding as the title character in Peter Hedges's PIECES OF APRIL. Holmes stars as April Burns, the black sheep of her family who has left suburbia for a Lower East Side tenement. To reconnect with her mother, Joy (Patricia Clarkson), and father, Jim (Oliver Platt), she invites them and her wisecracking brother (John Gallagher Jr.) and perfect sister (Alison Pill) for Thanksgiving dinner at her apartment, and against their better judgment, the Burnses pile up in the family station wagon, pick up Grandma (Alice Drummond), and head to the big city from the safe confines of their stereotypical suburban home. But Joy is seriously ill, complicating the road trip; meanwhile, April's oven is broken, sending her off to her bizarre and wacky neighbors to try to borrow their kitchen. Her interaction with Wayne (Sean Hayes) is a riot.Holmes is a revelation as April, showing marvelous range and depth as the outcast daughter who still strives for her mother's affection. Derek Luke is excellent as April's caring boyfriend, who understands how important this Thanksgiving dinner is to her. Platt is solid as the father, with just the right amount of vulnerability, but Clarkson nearly steals the movie; she takes over the screen in every scene she's in. Hedges's directorial debut, following screenplays for WHAT'S EATING GILBERT GRAPE, ABOUT A BOY, and A MAP OF THE WORLD, is well-paced and fun to watch. The soundtrack features music by Stephin Merritt with the 6ths and Magnetic Fields.
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