Parents' Guide to The Good Half

This dramedy about death and grieving is sometimes a bit rough going, with certain scenes landing uncomfortably, but as it moves along, it deftly and touchingly finds its emotional balance. The Good Half is centered around a character who uses wit as a defense mechanism, and it turns a little below gallows humor here. His snarky remarks in otherwise somber situations make Renn seem petty and spoiled; it's hard to side with him. The character also depends heavily on the performance by pop star Jonas (of the Jonas Brothers), who may still be fine-tuning his craft. His technique, perhaps inspired by other actors he admires, is sometimes visible, and he can't always manage to find the center of this strange character. But patience pays off, and as Renn's defenses break down, things become more genuine.

Director Robert Schwartzman (The Argument) and writer Brett Ryland spend time building the other characters, which is also a big plus. Leigh could have been a nasty, snippy sister, and Rick could have been an uncaring, villainous stepfather, but the movie finds room for them and comes to understand their pain. Best of all are the flashback scenes between Renn and his mother, showing their special relationship. (Shue plays Lily with a sweet, goofy smile.) They are the secret sauce to The Good Half—and a clue to its title.