This weekend I rented Nebraska, one of the Academy Award Nominated Films. It wasn’t one of my typical rentals but I wanted to watch at least one of the nominated films. This movie was about a man named Woody Grant (portrayed by Bruce Dern). He was an elderly gentleman who had some dementia. He truly believed he had won a million dollars in a Publisher’s Clearinghouse type sweepstakes and needs to go to Nebraska to pick it up in person. He tries to convince his family to take him and when they refuse he sets off to walk to Nebraska. The interaction between Woody and his wife Kate (June Squibb) show the stress and toll that a spouse with dementia can take on the caretaker(Kate)

He finally convinces his youngest son David (Will Forte) to take him to Nebraska. Kate and the older son Ross (Bob Odenkirk) protest but Woody and David set off for Lincoln, Nebraska. The interaction between the father and younger son is touching and many of us can relate to David.

One of my favorite parts of the movie was when Woody and David end up staying with Woody’s older brother in his old hometown in a small town in Nebraska. Word leaks out of Woody’s million dollar windfall. The interaction between friends and relatives in light of this impending windfall are both humorous and sad. In the midst of this visit by Woody and David, Kate and Ross show up to provide support. It is interesting how the family bonds as it becomes an us versus them scenario.

One of the most interesting parts of the film is the film is entirely done in black and white. I thought it was a nice touch in the movie.

I definitely recommend this movie as a must see. I think everyone will be able to relate to the family and their struggles. While I liked the movie I am glad that I did not pay to see the movie in the theater but definitely think it is one to add to the need to rent list.