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Review

Depp has long specialized in the alienated teen, the loner who gets by in spite of himself. In What's Eating Gilbert Grape, he's still a misfit, but as the title character of this offbeat charmer, he's probably never been so "adjusted." Living in a small Iowa town, Gilbert comes from a classic dysfunctional family: his 500-pound mother (Cates) won't move from the couch; and his younger brother (DiCaprio) is mentally retarded and constantly climbing the water tower. Into his bored life comes a pretty drifter (Lewis) who, as it turns out, has a profound effect on all the Grape family. Funny, touching and sweet, with a dash of gentleness to its drama, the film features first-rate performances by all, including a lovely turn by newcomer Cates. But it is Oscar nominee DiCaprio who walks away with the acting honors.