Labor Day

****
UK Release Date: March 28th 2014

Depressed single mom Adele and her son Henry offer a wounded, fearsome man a ride. As police search town for the escaped convict, the mother and son gradually learn his true story as their options become increasingly limited.

Director: Jason Reitman (Young Adult, Up in the Air, Juno)

Starring: Kate Winslet, Josh Brolin, Gattlin Griffith, Tobey Maguire

Jason Reitman's previous films all have something in common; funny people who make jokes out of serious situations. Labor Day is invaluable for its differences. A dark façade hides its lighter centre.

It will surely catch your attention from an early point. Tobey Maguire is the descriptive voice-over, playing an older version of Gattlin Griffith's Henry, the son of Adele (Winslet). Adele is a lost soul after her divorce, but becomes instantly intrigued and infatuated with Frank, who accosts young Henry whilst they're out shopping. Adele is both curious about this stranger and his sordid past and worried for her son's safety. From the moment Adele and Frank (Brolin) meet, there's a connection that's loving to watch. Relating to a criminal hasn't been easier. At least from the start we're led to believe he's one.   

Labor Day is based on a novel by Joyce Maynard and written for the screen by Reitman. It has been written from the heart. Adele and Frank are a relaxed and calm pair who fall for each other quickly. This film has all the foundations that make a cheesy, soppy vibe, but manages to be more sentimental and loving thanks to subtle yet powerful performances by Brolin and Winslet. The maturest, cheesy part comes when Frank coolly shows Henry and Adele how to make a peach pie from scratch, but even then the sick bags aren't needed. A real heartwarming moment sees Adele and Henry look after the disabled son of a friend. Frank, risking everything, makes sure Henry's friend enjoys himself. Charming and thoughtful.

Labor day's story is driven by small actions and little dialogue. It doesn't take the gung-ho route. It's suspenseful enough without it.  Frank doesn't want to go back to prison, and we don't want him to either.