Yesterday we went to see the film "The Visitor" by actor/director Tom McCarthy. Excellent. Richard Jenkins, who plays the lead role, is astoundingly good. If you haven't seen this film, go get it on DVD. Early on I had my doubts, as it seemed like maybe the film was going to fall into some liberal clichés about multiculturalism and American guilt. But not at all. There are some interesting twists and wonderful subtleties. The themes are nothing new, but evolve mainly through convincing, understated performances from some wonderful actors: love and friendship are possible. We all screw up. We are all just visiting. Home? Better find someone to love. Tom McCarthy directed and wrote the screenplay. He also directed the wonderful 2003 film "The Station Agent." Another must see.
4.03.2009
The Visitor
Yesterday we went to see the film "The Visitor" by actor/director Tom McCarthy. Excellent. Richard Jenkins, who plays the lead role, is astoundingly good. If you haven't seen this film, go get it on DVD. Early on I had my doubts, as it seemed like maybe the film was going to fall into some liberal clichés about multiculturalism and American guilt. But not at all. There are some interesting twists and wonderful subtleties. The themes are nothing new, but evolve mainly through convincing, understated performances from some wonderful actors: love and friendship are possible. We all screw up. We are all just visiting. Home? Better find someone to love. Tom McCarthy directed and wrote the screenplay. He also directed the wonderful 2003 film "The Station Agent." Another must see.
