The Florida Project
The Florida Project

The Florida Project

2017Movie112 minEnglish

The story of a precocious six year-old and her ragtag group of friends whose summer break is filled with childhood wonder, possibility and a sense of adventure while the adults around them struggle with hard times.

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Insights

IMDb6.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes96%
Metacritic89
Google Users93%
Director: Sean BakerGenres: Drama

Plot Summary

Set against the backdrop of the Magic Kingdom's shadow, 'The Florida Project' follows a precocious and adventurous six-year-old girl named Moonee and her rebellious mother, Halley, as they navigate life in a rundown motel in the shadow of Walt Disney World. The film offers a vibrant yet poignant glimpse into the lives of the motel's residents, exploring themes of childhood innocence, poverty, and resilience against a backdrop of economic hardship.

Critical Reception

The film was widely acclaimed by critics for its unique visual style, authentic performances, and unflinching portrayal of childhood innocence amidst poverty. It was lauded for its ability to evoke empathy and highlight the struggles of low-income families living on the fringes of a tourist paradise.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its vibrant cinematography and authentic depiction of childhood.
  • Commended for its powerful performances, particularly from the young cast and Willem Dafoe.
  • Applauded for its sensitive yet unsentimental exploration of poverty and resilience.

Google audience: Audience reviews highlight the film's moving portrayal of childhood and its empathetic look at families struggling with poverty. Many viewers were touched by the performances and the unique perspective on life near a major tourist attraction, though some found the subject matter emotionally challenging.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for numerous awards, including an Independent Spirit Award for Best Director for Sean Baker and Best Supporting Actor for Willem Dafoe. Brooklynn Prince received critical acclaim and numerous awards for her performance as Moonee.

Fun Fact

The film was shot on iPhones, a decision made by director Sean Baker to achieve a specific visual aesthetic and to allow for greater intimacy with the young actors during filming.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

4 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

Motel manager “Bobby” (Willem Dafoe) tends to turn a bit of a blind eye to a few of his longer-term residents so long as they toe the line and don’t disturb the equilibrium of things at their residence a stone’s throw from the Walt Disney e...
Gimly

Gimly

I think Wayne put it best when he said: _"Don't, uh... Don't care much for kids, so..."_ _Final rating:★★½ - Not quite for me, but I definitely get the appeal._
Simon Foster

Simon Foster

"Sean Baker’s neo-realistic eye for humour, honesty and heartbreak has crafted a slow burn, potent commentary on America’s struggling underclass..." Read the full review here: http://screen-space.squarespace.com/reviews/2017/10/4/the-flo...
jessetaylor

jessetaylor

_The Florida Project_ is a beautiful film about people and life and survival. Sean Baker has shown us the underbelly of American culture that we normally don't get to see; these people aren't known and are the outcasts of society. Much like...