2009 AFI Dallas Film Festival - Gigantic

(USA, 2008, 99 mins)
35mm
US Premiere
Directed By: Matt Aselton
Cast: Jane Alexander, Edward Asner, Paul Dano, Zooey Deschanel, John Goodman,

Gigantic, a quirky, offbeat romantic comedy from first-time director Matt Aselton, shows the love and hate we have with family and our insecurity about where we fit in.

Brian Weathersby (Paul Dano), being the “surprise child” of his parents, has always felt disconnected from his family. He seeks to adopt a baby from China to validate himself by having a family of his own. Just as the adoption process is in full force, he meets Harriet (Zooey Deschanel) after he sells her father (John Goodman) a mattress from the specialty bedding store where he works. Brain befriends Harriet (aka Happy) and their relationship soon grows into something more. It’s only when reveals his adoption plans and Harriet’s fear of commitment becomes evident that Brian finds a way to deal with the conflict in his life.

Gigantic has a darkly humorous way of looking at relationships, both with family and lovers. Ultimately, the strong bond that Brian has with both helps him to finally understand his true purpose and self.

Information from the festival's website