Little Miss Sunshine is a 2006 film about the Hoover family, a dysfunctional group of individuals who are brought together by a common goal: to support the youngest member of the family, Olive, as she competes in the "Little Miss Sunshine" beauty pageant.
One of the most striking aspects of the Hoover family is their diversity. The family includes a father, Richard, who is a motivational speaker and is struggling to sell his self-help program; a mother, Sheryl, who is the glue that holds the family together and is a nurse; a grandfather, Edwin, who is a Proust scholar and has recently attempted suicide; a brother, Dwayne, who is a Nietzsche-reading teenager and has taken a vow of silence; a brother, Frank, who is a gay Proust scholar and has just been dumped by his lover; and a brother, Paul Dano, who is a depressed seven-year-old. Despite their differences, the family is united in their love and support for Olive, and they all embark on a road trip from Albuquerque to Redondo Beach, California, to support her in the beauty pageant.
One of the themes of the film is the importance of family and the ways in which families can support and love one another despite their flaws and differences. The Hoover family is a prime example of this, as they come together to support Olive and demonstrate their love for her through their actions and sacrifices. For example, Sheryl and Richard make the decision to take Olive to the pageant despite their financial struggles and the fact that they are barely able to afford the trip. Similarly, Dwayne, Frank, and Edwin all put aside their own issues and problems to support Olive and be there for her.
Another theme of the film is the importance of perseverance and determination. Despite the numerous setbacks and challenges that the family faces on their road trip, they remain determined to get to the pageant and support Olive. This determination is exemplified by Olive herself, who is determined to win the pageant and never gives up, even when she faces setbacks and criticism.
In conclusion, Little Miss Sunshine is a heartwarming and poignant film that explores the themes of family, love, and determination. Through the story of the Hoover family, it highlights the ways in which families can support and love one another despite their flaws and differences, and the importance of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.