Brilliant

Rating: 10/10 (1 August 2006)

We're all in it for the long, dysfunctional haul is the tone and message sent throughout the movie. The acting is wonderful, the meaning well done, and purpose clear. It is a refreshing movie that, although somewhat dark in tone, left me feeling restored as I left the theater. Steve Carell successfully makes the jump from the comedy of The 40 Year Old Virgin and The Office to the suicidal, almost defeated character in this film. Alan Arkin does beautifully as the gruff, hardened grandfather with a special connection with his granddaughter. And it's very nice to see a young girl being played by someone other than Dakota Fanning (finally). The directing is done beautifully and the script leaves room for humor in even the darkest of moments in the plot. Bravo.