Lars and the Real Girl (2007)

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05/02/2025

Lars and the Real Girl (2007) is a deeply moving and unique film that blends drama, comedy, and psychological introspection. Directed by Craig Gillespie and written by Nancy Oliver, the film presents an unconventional yet touching story about loneliness, mental health, and the power of human connection.

The story follows Lars Lindstrom (Ryan Gosling), a socially awkward and painfully introverted man living in a small, snowy Midwestern town. Lars is emotionally detached from those around him, including his brother Gus (Paul Schneider) and sister-in-law Karin (Emily Mortimer), who live nearby and constantly try to engage him in family activities. However, Lars prefers solitude, avoiding physical touch and struggling with deep-seated emotional trauma.

One day, Lars surprises everyone by announcing that he has a new girlfriend, Bianca—a life-sized, anatomically correct doll that he orders from an adult website. However, Lars does not see Bianca as an object; to him, she is a real person. He treats her with love and respect, speaking for her and believing in her as though she were truly alive.

Concerned but compassionate, Gus and Karin take Lars to Dr. Dagmar Berman (Patricia Clarkson), a local therapist who advises them to play along with his delusion. She explains that Lars is using Bianca as a way to process something deeply psychological and that forcing him to confront reality too soon could be harmful. With this in mind, the entire town comes together to embrace Bianca as if she were real. She gets a job at the local store, volunteers in the community, and even attends church.

As Lars interacts more with the community, he slowly starts opening up to real human relationships. He begins to form a bond with Margo (Kelli Garner), a sweet co-worker who has feelings for him. Over time, Lars starts to recognize his emotional needs and the possibility of genuine human connection. Eventually, he stages Bianca’s “illness,” allowing her to “die” peacefully, symbolizing his readiness to move forward and engage with the real world.

Lars and the Real Girl is a profoundly tender film that explores how love, empathy, and patience can help someone heal. The story challenges societal norms about relationships and mental health, showing that acceptance and kindness can have a transformative effect on individuals. Ryan Gosling’s performance is masterful, portraying Lars with vulnerability and depth. The film’s message—that healing takes time and that true connection is built through understanding—resonates deeply, making it a beautiful and unforgettable story about human resilience and love.

Lars and the Real Girl (2007)

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