Fall Movie Guide-Riding in Cars with Boys

The Players: Drew Barrymore, Steve Zahn, Brittany Murphy, James Woods, Lorraine Bracco; directed by Penny Marshall

The Skinny: Based on an autobiography by Beverly Donofrio, the story centers on a teenager (Barrymore) who dreams of becoming a writer, but falls for a dimwitted boy (Zahn), becomes pregnant and ultimately gets married. Through the course of the film, Barrymore ages from 15 to 35 and takes us on her journey, dealing with her husband’s substance abuse and her struggles to make ends meet. As time goes on, she must deal with the impact of her difficult life has had with her now-adult son.

The Bottom Line: It’s been about four years since Marshall directed anything (the last being 1996’s The Preacher’s Wife) and we are glad to see her back. She definitely plays up the human element in most of her films, so Riding in Cars will no doubt follow suit. Also, look for Barrymore to get some extra attention around awards time for her performance.

Opens: Oct. 19

September October November Glitter Joy Ride Domestic Disturbance Don’t Say a Word Max Keeble’s Big Move The Man Who Wasn’t There Hearts in Atlantis Serendipity Monsters, Inc. Zoolander Training Day The One Bandits Shallow Hal Corky Romano Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone The Last Castle Spy Game From Hell The Affair of the Necklace Heist Black Knight Riding in Cars with Boys Waking Life Bones 13 Ghosts K-PAX Life As A House << Back to intro page