What's Eating Gilbert Grape (1993)
Drama | Romance

"Wonderfully original." -Jeanne Wolf, Jeanne Wolf's Hollywood Movies

Experience this cinematic gem as never before via this Special Collector's Edition DVD. Featuring a "wonderful" performance by Johnny Depp (Sleepy Hollow) and the "show-stopping turn" that made Titanic's Leonardo DiCaprio a star, What's Eating Gilbert Grape is "pure magic" (Los Angeles Magazine).

Living in Endora is like dancing to no music. Gilbert Grape (Depp) should know. Aside from a secret affair with a housewife (Mary Steenburgen), Gilbert spends his days stocking shelves at a grocery store, caring for his mentally handicapped brother (DiCaprio), and holding together a large family headed by Mama, a former beauty queen whose weight tops 500 pounds. But just when Gilbert thinks nothing will ever change, a pretty stranger (Juliette Lewis) arrives on the scene, capturing Gilbert's heart and inspiring him to make a break.

User Comment: mstorey-1 from Jackson, Ms. USA, 26 November 2004 • As many have said, the first time I saw this slice of "unusual" life film, I was certain that the actor playing Arnie was mentally handicapped. This was the performance to end all. I have been around mentally challenged people who were the carbon copy of the character that Leonardo portrayed. I do no think that anyone else could have pulled this off without looking ridiculous. Our protagonist, Mr. Johnny Depp did his usual amazing work, but it is the performance by Leo that makes this film a must see. I just saw it again tonight, and was blown away again. Acting schools must have copies of this in their files!! Will always be a Leo fan for this one film alone.

Summary: can you believe Leo is not brain damaged?!

User Comment: Memegan2005 from United States, 31 December 2004 • This film is marvelous.

Focusing on the angst of an unwanted small-town life, the film follows the daily life of Johnny Depp's Gilbert Grape. He is sarcastic yet introverted, protective yet shy.

His mentally-challenged brother, Leonardo Dicaprio's Arnie, steals the heart and full attention of the audience. His depiction of a teenager trapped in the inescapable bind of mental retardation is moving and real, deserving of the 1993 Oscar Award Nomination.

Darlene Cates, who plays Momma, delivers a truly remarkable performance. Her display of motherly devotion, emotional turmoil and daily physical struggle are deserving of grand recognition.

Gilbert's life is turned around by the unexpected introduction of Juliette Lewis's Becky. Becky's free-spirited and optimistic take on life greatly influence's Gilbert's own life.

WHAT'S EATING GILBERT GRAPE is deeply tragic yet deeply real tale of a complicated family stuck in a simple town. The performances of Johnny Depp, Leonardo Dicaprio, Darlene Cates and Juliette Lewis are unmatched and truly wonderful. It is a film woven together with comedy, drama, love and everyday emotion, perfected with beautiful cinematography and superb directing.

Summary: A Truly Remarkable Film.

[CSW] -4- I agree, "A Truly Remarkable Film" filled with all the complications of "Living in Endora is like dancing to no music" and what a beautiful dance it was with no music. Definitely a do not miss must see movie.

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