'Spanglish' is nothing more (or less) than a charming mess. A cluttered story of cultures, families, languages, and personalities colliding, this James L. Brooks film tries to cover so much ground that it only occasionally hits on something deeper.
There are some major flaws here - characters are forgotten about completely for long stretches of time, Tea Leoni's portrayal of Deborah Clasky is extremely grating, and the narrative framing device (a college entrance letter) doesn't hold up to any scrutiny.
With all those flaws and more, though, there's something likeable in here. Adam Sandler underplays his part to great effect. Sarah Steele, as Sandler's daughter, is at times heartbreaking. Chloris Leachman does as much as she can with the little she's given. And Paz Vega plays the sweet side of Flor Moreno to perfection.
As art, 'Spanglish' is roughly the equivalent of an episode of 'Just Shoot Me.' As something to sit down and watch with the family after Thanksgiving dinner, it's not the worst way to spend a few hours.
MAYBE SO (6/10)
