Honestly, I happened to watch the movie “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape” simply for the reason that I was getting bored and there was nothing else to do! But, I loved it, and wondered how I had never heard about this movie before.
This film states a simple fact of life in a very effective manner. The gist of it is: ‘It is not always about making yourself happy, or doing what you want to do. Think about what you can do for your near and dear ones..that satisfaction is a simple way to your happiness!’
It is the story of a family; a family consisting of an extremely overweight and consequentially bitter and irritating mother (Darlene Cates), Gilbert Grape (Johnny Depp), who has to “take care” of the family, being the sole breadwinner, Amy Grape (Laura Harrington), the elder sister who takes care of all the “motherly” duties in the house, Ellen Grape (Mary Kate Schellhardt) , a typical teenager, often too frustrated about the day-to-day family problems, and Arnie Grape(Leonardo Di Caprio), an 18 year old with the brain of a 10 year old, who believes that his brother is the greatest person on the planet.
As the plot progresses, we can see how life goes on, despite all the problems and obstacles. Gilbert is caught between his family members, and his personal ambitions, and doesn't realize when the two things become one…he lives for his family. When asked what his ambitions are, all he can think of is what he wants for his mother, sisters, and brother, and all he wants to be in life is a “good person”. It really made me think whether there are any people like that in real life..people who don’t want any superficial and material things, and who just want to be “good”.
I was never a fan of Johnny Depp, and quite disliked Leonardo Di Caprio. In this film, Johnny looks like a “chocolate boy”, and is extremely adorable, and sincere as Gilbert Grape. Leonardo is brilliant as the mentally challenged Arnie..very genuine, and never falters. Darlene Cates portrays the mother brilliantly. The other supporting cast is apt. Especially worth a mention is Juliette Lewis who plays Becky, Gilbert’s girlfriend and buddy.
Watch this movie for Depp and Di Caprio..they are indeed a treat of sweet grapes!
