Thomas Anna Reviews
\"That's Mean! That's Life!\" – An Elderly Woman with Mental Illness, a Mom on the Edge, and Dealing with Entitled Kids – My Take.
summarizeEditor's Summary
I gave the sequel a go after the first one won me over, and it actually gave me more than I expected. It follows an elderly woman wrestling with mental illness, a mom teetering on the edge, and a bunch of entitled kids, all wrapped in humor and heart. Emma Thompson shines, the colors pop, and the whole thing feels like a mini‑escape. Not flawless, but it’s a solid, feel‑good watch that sticks with you.
settingsSpecifications
live_helpFeatured FAQ
What is the main plot of 'That's Mean! That's Life!'?
The film follows an elderly woman battling mental illness, a mother on the brink of a breakdown, and a group of entitled kids, all tangled in a family drama that mixes humor with heartfelt moments.
Is Emma Thompson the only strong performance in the movie?
Emma Thompson definitely steals the show with her nuanced portrayal, and several supporting actors add charm too, even though their characters could have used a bit more development.
How does the sequel compare to the original?
The sequel widens the world, answers lingering questions from the first film and adds new layers, but it isn’t as tight‑paced, so fans may notice a slower rhythm.
Is the movie family‑friendly?
Yes, it’s suitable for most families; it tackles serious topics with a light touch, though younger kids might need a little guidance on the mental‑health themes.
What are the standout visual elements?
The colorful scenery and detailed set design create a vivid backdrop that feels both dreamy and grounded, making each frame Instagram‑ready.
Does the film address mental health responsibly?
It offers a compassionate look at mental illness, showing both struggles and moments of hope, though it sometimes leans into melodrama rather than pure realism.
Where can I stream or buy the movie?
You can stream it on major platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, or buy it on iTunes or Google Play.
How long is the runtime?
The movie runs about 2 hours 10 minutes, which feels a bit long given the story’s scope.
Is the humor in the film effective?
The humor lands well in most scenes, especially when Emma Thompson’s character swoops in to fix chaos, though a few jokes feel forced.
Would you recommend this film to someone who loved the first one?
Definitely – if you liked the original’s blend of heart and humor, you’ll appreciate the sequel’s deeper dive, just be ready for a slower middle act.
check_circlePros
- •A dreamy, escapist vibe that’s perfect for kicking back after a hectic day.
- •Stunning, colorful set design that feels lived‑in and pulls you right into the world.
- •Emma Thompson gives a warm, nuanced performance that holds the whole film together.
- •Heart‑warming family dynamics that feel genuine and easy to relate to.
- •A thought‑provoking look at mental health and aging that never feels preachy.
- •Sharp, witty dialogue that keeps things light even when the drama gets heavy.
cancelCons
- •The middle stretches out a bit, so the pacing drags in places.
- •Some subplots—like the dad with seven kids—just fade without proper closure.
- •The swing between comedy and drama can feel jarring at times.
- •Supporting characters stay on the surface, leaving you craving more backstory.
- •At about two hours and ten minutes, the runtime feels a tad long for the story it tells.
- •Occasional melodramatic moments feel forced rather than earned.
