The Peanut Butter Falcon

...a parable on the outsider, with a lot of healthy rumination of disability in the mix, but like the best efforts, it doesn’t make a big show of ‘daring to talk about it’.

Eleanor's romance with Tyler isn't exactly credible. But then credibility isn't exactly the point and it's pleasant enough to go along for the ride.

This little film comes with a big heart. It's also one of those almost tactile films where you can nearly touch and smell and feel everything on screen - the courageous intimacy feeds an understated narrative, giving room for the performances to drive home the emotion.

Despite its predictable, crowd-pleasing narrative and some fairly broad character types, this independent first feature charms its audience with universally fine performances from its leads, supported by Dakota Johnson (Fifty Shades of Grey), Bruce Dern and indie favourite John Hawkes (Winter’s Bone).

The Peanut Butter Falcon is the very definition of a truly feel-good movie. It is smart, witty and never panders to, or patronises, its audience.

Like a Disney family drama from TV times past, this feelgood road movie is so homely, so warm and fuzzy, and so darn wholesome that it's almost too much.

The Peanut Butter Falcon isn't shy of pushing your buttons, but the overall effect has an innocent charm and frankness, and LaBeouf brings a winning combination of toughness and soul.

Saves the worst for last, as the plot kicks into gear during the third act and blunts the film's delicate emotional texture into a contrived drumbeat of dull choices.

LaBeouf brings the soul to "The Peanut Butter Falcon," while Gottsagen brings the spirit. He has an undeniably charming screen presence, and the actor takes to this starring role with gusto.

Gottsagen is a disarming performer who creates a sweet and funny character.

Sure, Scarlett Johansson could probably have played the role (as well as any of the trees in the background). But if you seek a good example of why diversity in casting and conception makes for a richer cinema landscape, look no further.

LaBeouf holds the screen with natural allure, making every twinge of his character's self-reproach, and every instant of his dawning joy, achingly felt. His nuanced performance propels this journey.

A feel-good niche indie with its priorities in the right place.