At Middleton - A Movie Review

College is the time to explore. Make the decisions that are right for you.

At Middleton is a 2013 film about two separate parents who take their kids to Middleton College for a tour. Splitting off on their own adventures, the day turns into a time to reflect, learn, and grow.

For those who are just starting the process of looking into college, At Middleton is the film for you. I thought it was an authentic story that displayed the importance of making friendships. College is the most important time for anyone. At Middleton expresses the value of being true to yourself and making decisions that are beneficial for you.

I could tell that Vera Farmiga and Andy Garcia had fun. I was impressed with what they brought to the screen. They worked very well together establishing a bond that neither has felt in a while. I have always been a fan of Farmiga. She is natural when it comes to comedy. I have not seen Garcia in many films but he transformed from a closed-off person, learning to breathe.

Edith and George help each other in more ways than one on this important day for their kids. Reluctant to admit that they are unhappy with their lives, they unravel the layers in which they have repressed. Going off on adventures of their own around the campus, I enjoyed the scenarios they found themselves in. However, I felt that their story became tedious, specifically by the end, dragging the film out.

Aside from Edith and George’s story, I enjoyed the subplot between Audrey and Conrad. While Audrey is way ahead of herself, Conrad is uninterested in his future. Their evolution felt genuine. In his film debut, Spencer Rocco Lofranco was impressive, gaining a new calling to which he never knew that he was interested.

Acting as mother and daughter, Taissa Farmiga is actually the younger sister to Vera Farmiga! They were great, arguing, and being sarcastic. In the little time that the kids spend with their parents, they learn and grow on their own.

Supporting actors made this feel like a real college. Tour guides are everything in the college experience. Props to Nicholas Braun for a hilarious and awkward tour. Other credits to include are Tom Skerrit, Peter Reigert, Mirjana Jokovic, Stephen Borrello IV, and Daniella Garcia.

No small part is too small. I enjoyed all the students we meet on this campus. This is a character film. You have the students who study hard, the athletes, drama club, and those who go to college to get away from their parents. Shoutout goes to all the extras who made the film feel genuine.

The dialogue is very important in this film. It’s real. Adam Rogers did a great job with his direction on both stories coming out with two different messages for audiences. I like how he gave his actors the chance to go with what feels right, giving them the freedom to explore their character and subtleties.

You never know who you are going to cross paths with, or for how long. I remember when it was time for my own college tour week. Choosing which college you want to go to is the most stressful process. At Middleton is an essential film for those who are just starting this process. Be yourself. Be open-minded.

I recommend At Middleton for anyone who is about to start, in the middle, or has just finished college. The film is most enjoyable because everyone can relate to it. At Middleton is a genuinely touching story sporting to enjoy the little things.