Paper Moon

In the depression-era USA, a con-man (Ryan O’Neal) finds himself lumbered with a little girl (Tatum O’Neal) who may or may not be his daughter. He’s tasked with taking her across the country and on the road they form a bit of an unusual bond.

It’s no great surprise that the real-life father and daughter combo at the heart of Paper Moon works so well on screen, but there’s definitely something about Tatum O’Neal that’s operating on another level here. Her scowling child act is hilarious but she sneaks in so much vulnerability under the surface. She’s really perceptive and street-smart but also clearly still learning about the world and what it is to grow up.

A charming, easy going film brimming with heart.