Abigail (Dianna Agron) is a divorced mother of two. She’s estranged from her brother Nathan (Simon Helberg) and trying to help her micromanaging mother Barbara (Candice Bergen) to look after her ailing father Eugene (Dustin Hoffman). Barely having time for herself, she puts herself out there to find new love.

As They Made Us is a character driven film about a dysfunctional family. The highs and lows of life are depicted in a relatable way. These people are easy to connect with and that enhances the enjoyment while watching.

It is brilliantly acted; the cast have a chemistry that makes you interested in their life journeys. Dianna Agron gives an emotional performance that is unlike anything I’ve seen her do before. I hadn’t watched Simon Helberg in anything aside from The Big Bang Theory, but I was impressed with his portrayal of Nathan. Dustin Hoffman and Candice Bergen are such household names and were certainly in top form here.

First time writer, producer and director Mayim Bialik did a great job. You can tell she really put her heart and soul into creating this piece. I only wish we could have gotten more backstory on Nathan and his relationship with Barbara as well as more on Abigail herself. She was such an anchor for the family, but she could have been fleshed out more.

As They Made us is a film that makes you think about your family and your upbringing. It will hit you where it hurts, but it will also make you smile. Choosing to focus more on the family dynamics and characters may not be everyone’s cup of tea yet I still think it was worth the watch.

Rating: ♥♥.5