Like a by-the-numbers biopic, except about a fictional person. But not really, because Edna is so clearly based on Carole King that you wonder why Allison Anders didn't just make a movie about King. And the way Anders shoehorns in various "looking through the prism of the era" moments to briefly comment on social issues is painfully transparent. It's just not very impressive filmmaking on any level. Illeana Douglas is the saving grace (har de har har). The other bonus is the choice soundtrack.

You owe me $3, Kermode.