Running With Scissors, the review

Running with Scissors is based on a memoir by Augusten Burroughs, though it might as well have been designed as a screenplay. Its cast of wacky characters and off-the-wall events make it a natural fit in the era of independent films.

I haven't read the book, so I can't tell you if it's a good adaptation or not. Many reviewers have said not. But if you watch it without preconceived notions, it can be quite entertaining.

Another criticism many have made is that the movie jumps from funny and ridiculous to terribly serious without smooth segues. It's true, but this didn't bother me. In fact, I thought it added authenticity both to the characters and story. Real life is full of bumpy transitions, too.

What struck me most, however, was the acting. Annette Bening deserves every bit of Oscar buzz that she's generating. Everyone has probably met someone like her character, and you realize it because her performance rings so true.

That's not to say that the other actors didn't hold their own. The only weak link might have been Gwyneth Paltrow. But Joseph Fiennes was amazing — of course, have you ever seen a film where either he or Ralph weren't? Also, I thought Alec Baldwin was surprisingly good, even in a relatively small part. It reminded me a lot of the understated role that Bill Murray played in Lost in Translation.

As with almost all stories, there are universal moments that cut through the quirkiness of everything that's going on. And there is no shortage of laugh-out-loud moments. It's a good one to watch with a theater full of people.

The costumes, props and sets are also stand-outs, almost to the point of distraction. It's a visually stunning movie, as they say.

But be forewarned: The story is intense. At the end of the day, it is most definitely a drama, and there are some troubling scenes and bits of dialogue. Even though the main character is 13 throughout much of the movie, he lives in a very grown-up world.

Depending on how much you can identify with it, Running with Scissors will stick with you for several days. It's probably not for everyone, but I think it deserved better notices from the critics.

Oh, and one last note: Whether or not you buy the DVD, do buy the soundtrack.