Lars and the Real Girl

Shy and solitary Lars Lindstrom struggles to connect with people in a small town. He announces he has a girlfriend he met online, an unusual claim that surprises his family and neighbors. Instead of mocking him, they accept the situation, guided by a physician who advises the town to treat the relationship as real for Lars's sake. What follows is a communal experiment in patience, kindness, and imagination as Lars's 'girlfriend' becomes a catalyst for conversations about loneliness, trust, and what it means to belong. The town organizes visits and meals, creating a network of support around a man who has kept others at a distance. The film shows that care can grow from beginnings while preserving boundaries and dignity.

Released in 2007, the film was directed by Craig Gillespie with a screenplay by Nancy Oliver. Made on a budget of 12 million, it is built from an original premise rather than adapting existing work, and it leans into humor.

The film earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Screenplay, recognizing Nancy Oliver's deft writing. Critics widely praised its quiet humor, Gosling's restrained performance, and the compassionate lens through which a difficult subject is approached. It also earned nominations from various critics circles and earned a warm audience response.

The Real Girl became a touchstone for conversations about mental health and community support. Its premise invites viewers to rethink judgment and to value empathy over normalcy, turning a quirky setup into a reminder of belonging. It is often cited for showing how neighbors can ease loneliness with simple acts.

Critics praised the film for Gosling's understated performance and its balance of humor and tenderness. It grapples with loneliness, the need for connection, and how a compassionate community can heal wounds that go beyond the surface. The movie is often cited as an overlooked indie gem of humane storytelling.