Frank Langella plays a one-time burglar and (still) incorrigible shoplifter who's done time for his crimes and is now living alone and starting to develop dementia. Set in the 'near future', his concerned middle-aged son presents him with a servant-robot to do all his daily chores for him and to offer advice about his health and nudge him with reminders. He is, predictably, initially hostile to its interference but soon realises that he may be able to use the robot, who apparently doesn't have any moral qualms, to revive his former criminal 'profession'. Romantic interest is provided by the always very watchable Susan Sarandon as a librarian former flame of his - and who, incidentally, looks nothing like the 20+ years older than she was in 'Thelma & Louise'.
It's a slight, rather quaint film, which is precisely where it was undoubtedly aimed. A few minor chuckles along the way, with one or two little excitements, but nothing more than that. I wasn't bored, though I did find myself longing for something a bit more profound, while fully aware that this was the wrong place to look for it. Considering that the admission price was only a little more than half of what it would have been first time round I'm not complaining. Also, it comes in at just under 90 minutes - a point very much in its favour.
In terms of personal 'enjoyment', a fraction better than 'fair'...............5.5
The premise sounds quite lovely actually but I can't help thinking that it would have been better if made by Brits rather than Americans.
ReplyDeleteMaybe, Craig. It could be that you think there would have been too much sentiment. There was certainly some, but it wasn't drowning in it. If Brits might have kept this more in check I think they might have gone overboard on the whimsical aspect. Anyway, whatever - it's been made and it was in now way bad.
DeleteI saw the title and thought that this is one I would pass on. Caught Langella's name and my interest grew. Looked like it was a film that covered many themes. I watched it on Movies On Demand this evening and really enjoyed it. A very thoughtfulmovie which tells a good story. Langella, as usual, gave a great performance. But surprise! Sarsgaard's vocal performance as Langella's servant/robot stole the show. A very thoughtful movie that tells a good story. Btw, went to see "Pines" Friday evening, but more people there than I thought. Only front seats available. Will see it this Friday or Saturday and will get back to you.
ReplyDeleteMy 'morning after' feeling - and even before I saw your comment above I was wondering if I'd been too harsh, but reading my post again I don't think so. Perhaps I'd now up the score a little to a '6'.
DeleteWhen I saw Sarsgaard's name on the credits I fleetingly wondered which character he could have been, but didn't pursue it further. Now you've clarified it for me and I wonder how I could have missed it.
I'll look out for your opine on 'Pines'.