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Ruby Sparks
2012 104 min United States of America R 16+
★7.2
Comedy, Romance, Fantasy, Drama
Director: Jonathan Dayton, Valerie Faris
Trailers
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Description
Calvin is a young novelist who achieved phenomenal success early in his career but is now struggling with his writing – as well as his romantic life. Finally, he makes a breakthrough and creates a character named Ruby who inspires him. When Calvin finds Ruby, in the flesh, sitting on his couch about a week later, he is completely flabbergasted that his words have turned into a living, breathing person.
Budget:
$8M
US Gross:
$2.54M
Worldwide:
$9.37M
Starring
Paul Dano
Actor
Zoe Kazan
Actor
Chris Messina
Actor
Awards
Saturn Awards 2013
— Best Fantasy Film
Saturn Awards 2013
— Best Actress
Key opinion
Ruby Sparks is widely regarded as an original, thought-provoking exploration of relationship dynamics, control, and the dangers of idealization. While the performances of Paul Dano and Zoe Kazan are frequently praised for their chemistry, opinions on the film's execution and tonal shift remain divided.
| Theme | The film succeeds as a compelling, intelligent examination of the 'god complex' and the ethical dangers of attempting to control a partner's autonomy. | |
| Acting | Paul Dano and Zoe Kazan deliver strong, nuanced performances, and their real-life chemistry significantly elevates the central dynamic of the film. | |
| Originality | The premise is lauded for being highly original and an accessible, refreshing alternative to standard romantic comedy formulas. | |
| Screenplay | Zoe Kazan’s screenplay is praised for its clever structural balance of humor and drama, though some viewers feel it lacks necessary situational variety. | |
| Ending | The ending creates a divide; some viewers find the resolution harmonious and satisfying, while others feel it is predictable or fails to fully commit to the narrative's darker implications. | |
| Direction | While some critics applaud the film's subtle and grounded direction, others argue it lacks a distinct directorial signature or fails to reach its full cinematic potential. |