‘IF’ Review: John Krasinski’s Family Film is Entertaining and Heartfelt

In a time when we’re being bombarded with sequels and superheroes, there is a much-needed appetite for original films, and John Krasinski’s latest, IF, fills this gap at the box office, delivering a beautifully touching blend of humor, emotion, and lovable furry characters.

That’s not to say there aren’t flaws—there are a few. It’s imperfect, but there’s an undeniable charm that doesn’t deserve the savage criticism it has received. Much of that charm comes from a fantastic central performance by Cailey Fleming, who gives this film its heart.

It’s a sweet tale about rediscovering our inner child and the magic of imagination. By bringing IFs (short for ‘imaginary friends’) to life, we’re introduced to a vibrant cast of colorful characters. Bea (Fleming) meets Calvin (Ryan Reynolds), her beleaguered upstairs neighbor, and they discover they share a unique ability. Both can see and hear the forgotten imaginary friends—the “IFs”—a whimsical group of colorful creatures abandoned by the children who once imagined them into existence.

The film captivates you with a stunning array of colorful characters, voiced by a host of Hollywood heavyweights. Steve Carell brings to life the bumbling & clumsy ‘Blue’, while Phoebe Waller-Bridge voices ‘Blossom’, a whimsical butterfly. Emily Blunt pops in as an overexcited unicorn, and Bradley Cooper lends his voice to a disgruntled ice cube. These are just a few of the many vibrant personalities that make up this delightful ensemble.

While the ensemble of colorful characters may steal the show, there’s much more to IF. At its center is Bea’s poignant journey as she grapples with her father’s (Krasinski) health issues, which evoke painful memories of her mother’s passing a few years prior. Her frequent visits to her father in hospital throughout the film provide touching and emotional family moments that deepen the story.

A warm family movie brimming with genuine emotion and heart.

Some critics have pointed out Ryan Reynolds’ subdued performance, and indeed, it’s precisely that—subdued. However, within the context of the film, it feels intentional, Reynolds takes a step back to allow his young co-star Cailey Fleming to shine. Whether she’s nailing the dance choreography or having emotional moments with her father, Reynolds graciously guides her performance. He was never going to be his wise-cracking Deadpool persona in this.

Where the film faces challenges is in its overwhelming busyness. It’s packed with multiple side plots, never quite settling. Whether it’s a matchmaking service for abandoned IFs with new kids, IF’s reconnecting with their old creators, or delving into Bea’s family tragedy, it never fully explores any of these stories.

Despite these shortcomings, viewers can navigate around them to find a warm family movie brimming with genuine emotion and heart. Michael Giacchino’s touching score adds to the film’s wholesomeness. And with Cailey Fleming’s standout performance, supported by a delightful array of colorful characters it’s an enjoyable watch.

IF is now playing in cinemas worldwide.

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