Synopsis: A son looks to reconnect with his long-lost father and bring him home to the bedside of his ailing mother.
Release Date: August 28, 2009 MPAA Rating: PG-13
Genre(s): Comedy,
Film Review
Production
When it comes to dysfunctional family dramas this movie hits the mark. It may not be a fast paced ride, but its full of emotion and it makes you think and consider what could possibly be going on between the characters below the surface. If you give it a chance and enter with an open mind you will find a deeply moving story about family, love, and the connections between people.
Acting
The film features a host of performances by very talented actors. Jeff Bridges is remarkable as Kyle Garrett, the absent father who loves himself and his fame more than his family. Mary Steenburgen is wonderful every time she appears on screen as the dying mother, Katherine. Then there is Kate Mara as Lucy who adds a great level of depth to her own character and those she interacts with throughout. Just a simple smile from her and you melt. Lastly, we have Justin Timberlake (Carlton Garrett). As the son who must come to terms with his absentee father and discover what he truly wants out of his life he is adequate on screen. The drawback, and this is not to say it is his fault as an actor, is the pairing of him with Jeff Bridges in almost every scene. Bridges is clearly a stronger actor, he has a greater range of emotion and can draw out a character better from his experience. Timberlake does not stand much of a chance next to him. He holds his own, but is always overtaken just enough by Bridges to make his performance appear weak. When you put him in a scene with Kate Mara (Lucy) he is on a more equal level, but never right on.
Cast and Crew
- Director(s): Michael MeredithMichael MeredithJustin Moore-Lewy
- Producer(s): Michael MeredithJustin Timberlake (Carlton Garrett)
- Screenwriter(s): Jeff Bridges (Kyle Garrett)Mary Steenburgen (Katherine)Harry Dean Stanton (Amon)
- Story: Kate Mara (Lucy)
- Cast: Yaron OrbachPaki Smith
- Editor(s): Molly Grundman
- Cinematographer: Christopher LennertzFilms In Motion
- Production Designer(s):
- Costume Designer:
- Casting Director(s): Michael Kaelin & Associates
- Music Score:
- Music Performed By:
- Country Of Origin: USA