There is hardly anyone in Hollywood who would say something bad about Alan Arkin. He filled an amazing career with wit and dignity, without however having stood in the front row. He died over the weekend at the age of 89.
While many now remember his wonderful roles in The Russians are Coming! The Russians are Coming!”, “The Heart is a Lonely Hunter” and “Edward Scissorhands” (all too often forgetting that his witty wit and rustic refinement in “The Kominsky Method” were the real gift to his viewers is), of course, Abigail Breslin has to remind her of her time with Arkin on the set of Little Miss Sunshine.
The then 10-year-old competed with numerous colleagues for the charm crown in the still hilarious independent comedy, but of course as the star of the story she has the sweetness bonus over all the cynical or crazy dwarfs. Alan Arkin played her grandfather in the 2006 film, and received a supporting role Oscar for his portrayal of the quaint, drug-loving oddball.
Well, upon learning of his death, Breslin responded with sadness but also pride at having met Arkin in an interview with People:
“Alan Arkin was one of the kindest, gentlest and funniest actors I’ve ever worked with. While we were not related in real life, he will always be my grandpa in my heart and I send my deepest condolences to his wife Suzanne and family.”
“Little Miss Sunshine”: Cynically sentimental road trip
If you haven’t seen “Little Miss Sunshine” yet, catch up (e.g. at Disney+). You will hardly find a film that manages the balancing act between cynicism and sentimentality so clearly and cleverly. It’s about a young hopeful but plump girl who wants to be a beauty queen. After qualifying for what is sure to be a deeply questionable contest, the flea-loving family climbs into their rickety VW bus to travel from New Mexico to California. A road trip that has a lesson for everyone and then some.