Surprises Aplenty

Rating: 8/10 (4 May 2014)

Just a flat-out enjoyable movie. Of course Stiller has mastered the role of a self-effacing mensch. What I found most surprising was the pure sweetness of it all. The cinematography was awesome, with truly magnificent views of Greenland's and Iceland's countryside. Likewise,the special effects - which is what I fully expected the whole movie to be about (but not even close) - were sensational. Shirley MacLaine was a hoot - as always. And Kristen Wiig was perfect. She also surprised me with her singing - made me think a woman will be releasing a similar version soon. The other surprise for me was what a fine movie it actually was. My local on-demand service has it coming in with a really lousy rating. Not sure why...but might have something to do with people thinking it too unbelievable. Me? I had a wonderful time simply allowing myself to dream - much like dear old Walter Mitty, who, goes through quite an interesting transformation through the course of the movie.