a wonderful character study that makes you think

Rating: Null/10 (7 January 2010)

A story that takes a deep look at purpose in life and exactly what avenues that are available to some. It's a wonderful character study and I'm glad the movie itself never resorted to clichés or an overly predictable path. Sure, some plot turns are easy to spot but the message I got out of the story is that purpose has to be defined by an individual, not society or other people's expectations. That's the true beauty of the script. Clooney's quips and charm do carry the film but the overall tone is masterfully presented. Do you need a "co-pilot" to be happy in life? As in reality, the answer is not what you think it would be. Clooney's character himself doesn't know for certain but he seems to be trying to figure it out while enjoying true freedom and self-fulfillment. Loneliness only rears its head after he fools himself in to thinking that he wants more. His ending monologue doesn't pass judgment but does give the viewer more to think about. Paraphrasing: "People will come home to their bouncing dogs and screaming kids after locking themselves away for the day to look up at the stars. One star that is shining brighter than the rest will be my wingtip as I pass by."