The Oranges

Synopsis

The Oranges is a 2011 romantic comedy-drama that explores the complexities of family dynamics and unexpected love in suburban America. The story centers around David Walling (Hugh Laurie) and his wife, Barbara (Catherine Keener), whose comfortable life is disrupted when their teenage children, including the rebellious teenager Vanessa (Leighton Meester), become entangled in a startling romance between David and the family's close friend’s daughter, Nina (Catherine Keener). The film delves into themes of infidelity, societal expectations, and the challenges of confronting personal desires while maintaining familial bonds. With its blend of humor and heartfelt moments, The Oranges paints a nuanced picture of relationships and emotional turmoil that can upend even the most stable of households.

Cast

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  Leighton Meester

  Nina Ostroff

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  Hugh Laurie

  David Walling

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  Alia Shawkat

  Vanessa Walling

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  Allison Janney

  Carol Ostroff

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  Catherine Keener

  Paige Walling

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  Adam Brody

  Toby Walling

Reviews

Critical reception for The Oranges was mixed, with many reviewers pointing to an uneven tone and underdeveloped characters. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 31% approval rating, reflecting a generally lukewarm response from critics. The consensus often refers to the film's intriguing premise but criticizes its execution. Metacritic's score of 46/100 similarly indicates mixed or average reviews. Many praised the performances, particularly by Hugh Laurie and Leighton Meester, for bringing depth to their roles despite the script's shortcomings. For instance, The Hollywood Reporter noted that while the film "struggles to find a consistent tone," the cast "delivers solid performances that keep the audience engaged." IMDb users gave the film a 5.8/10, suggesting that while the movie might not resonate broadly, some viewers appreciated its exploration of family and romance. However, some critiques highlighted that the film's pacing and narrative choices detracted from the overall impact, with The New York Times remarking on its "uneven storytelling and missed opportunities to delve deeper into its provocative premise." Overall, The Oranges is seen as a film with potential that doesn't quite realize its ambitions, making it a polarizing experience depending on viewer expectations.