This is certainly the definition of a vanity project: Relative newcomer Cooper Raiff wrote/directed and stars in the leading role. He plays a somewhat aimless 22 year old, who befriends a single mom (Dakota Johnson) and her autistic daughter (Vanessa Burghardt, who is). Of course, their friendship tries to blossom into more. Raiff is affable and energetic, which translates into the mood and style of his direction as well. Johnson is warm and smiling, while Burghardt is gently sweet. Raiff’s scenario is also abundant with clichés and his dialogue is seldom original. There is an earnest charm that may affect those looking for a sentimental coming-of-age semi-romance, so you could say that Raiff’s vanity project wasn’t all in vain. 
(3 / 5)
