Lars and the Real Girl presents a picture of a mentally ill man
whose illness is manifest in a way that can easily create awkwardness for his
neighbours, friends, and family. In
fact, his illness does create awkwardness for the people who love him. Lars believes he met a woman named Bianca on
the Internet and that he and she are in a romantic relationship. When he introduces Bianca to his brother Gus and
sister-in-law Karin, they are shocked to realize that Bianca is actually a sex
doll. The source of his family’s awkwardness
in this situation is obvious. What they
do with the awkwardness is remarkable, however.
Acting on the advice of Lars’ doctor, the people who love Lars come to
accept his bizarre relationship and support Lars in the same way they would if
Bianca was in fact a real girl.
Beginning with his sister-in-law, Lars’ family, his church, and his
community surround him with love.
There are spoilers in this post.
