Review of Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close

I can see both the positive and negative interpretations of this film: for one I can see how it may seem almost exploitative or offensive, while I can also see how the movie delivers a valuable message from a different perspective. I found this to be a particularly emotional and moving film, while finding other parts of the movie quite confrontational and off-putting. The premise of a 9-11 themed fictional film aims to emotionally draw the viewer through sequences such as the 'falling man' jumping out of the World Trade Center... This didn't seem entirely tasteful. On the other hand the themes this movie presents, particularly encouragement of social interaction for a child with autism as well as celebration of the memory of those we have lost, bring a comforting and uplifting presence to the film, reminding the viewer that while it may seem to be a coercing tear-jerking, the movie's major cause lies in the journey taken by the lead character. I don't think I'm alone here either, with an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture, this movie is presented rather nicely for the most part.