The Good House

Movie Trailer

Release Date
September 30, 2022

Genre
Drama, Comedy

Cast & Crew

• Sigourney Weaver as Hildy Good
• Kevin Kline as Frank Getchell
• Morena Baccarin as Rebecca McAllister
• Rob Delaney as Scott Good
• Beverly D’Angelo as Mamie Lang
• David Rasche as Peter Newbold

Directors
Maya Forbes, Wallace Wolodarsky

Other Movies Directors are Known For

• Maya Forbes: Infinitely Polar Bear (2014)
• Wallace Wolodarsky: Seeing Other People (2004)

Producer
Jane Rosenthal, Berry Welsh, Aaron Ryder

Writer
Thomas Bezucha, Maya Forbes, Wallace Wolodarsky (based on the novel by Ann Leary)

Budget
$8 million (estimated)

Production Company
Amblin Partners, Participant Media, Reliance Entertainment

Running Time
103 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R

Content Advisory

• Alcoholism
• Mild sexual content
• Language
• Mature themes

Movie Story
“The Good House” is a nuanced dramedy that blends humor with a deeper exploration of human struggles, particularly focusing on the complexities of addiction, family, and personal redemption. The film is centered around Hildy Good, a sharp-witted, New England real estate agent whose seemingly perfect life is starting to fray at the edges. Hildy, played brilliantly by Sigourney Weaver, is a successful businesswoman who has spent years carefully crafting her image, both in her community and within her family.

Hildy, however, has a secret that she tries to keep hidden from everyone around her: she’s a high-functioning alcoholic. Despite her outward appearance of control, Hildy’s drinking is spiraling, affecting her relationships with her clients, her daughters, and her ex-husband. Her life takes an unexpected turn when she reconnects with Frank Getchell, a rugged local played by Kevin Kline, who brings a touch of romance and nostalgia to her life.

As Hildy’s life begins to unravel, the film delves into the reasons behind her alcoholism, revealing deep-seated insecurities, unfulfilled dreams, and the pressures of maintaining a facade in a small town where everyone knows each other’s business. The narrative is both humorous and poignant, capturing the charm of small-town life while also addressing the very real issue of addiction. Hildy’s journey is one of self-discovery and acceptance, as she learns to confront her demons and take control of her life.

The film’s storytelling is enhanced by Hildy’s direct-to-camera monologues, where she breaks the fourth wall to share her innermost thoughts with the audience. This technique allows for a deeper connection with the character, making her struggles and triumphs all the more impactful.

Special Effects
“The Good House” is a character-driven film that relies more on its strong performances and sharp script than on special effects. The visuals are simple yet effective, capturing the quaint beauty of the New England setting and the intimacy of the small-town atmosphere.

Box Office Performance
“The Good House” had a limited theatrical release and performed modestly at the box office. However, it received positive feedback from critics and audiences for its strong performances, particularly that of Sigourney Weaver, and its thoughtful portrayal of addiction and personal growth.

Filming Locations

• Beverly, Massachusetts, USA
• Manchester-by-the-Sea, Massachusetts, USA

Notable Quotes

• “I don’t drink. I drink. I know how to drink.” – Hildy Good
• “You can’t start over. You can only move forward.” – Frank Getchell

Behind-the-Scenes
“The Good House” marks the third collaboration between Sigourney Weaver and Kevin Kline, who previously worked together in “Dave” (1993) and “The Ice Storm” (1997). Their on-screen chemistry adds depth to the film’s exploration of rekindled love and second chances.

Awards

• N/A

Final Verdict
“The Good House” is a compelling blend of drama and comedy that offers an honest look at the struggles of addiction and the complexities of human relationships. Sigourney Weaver’s performance as Hildy Good is both captivating and relatable, making this film a must-watch for those who appreciate character-driven stories with emotional depth. While it may not have achieved blockbuster status, its heart and humor leave a lasting impression.

IMDb Rating
6.5/10