This week, I’ve been fortunate enough to go to screenings of films that will be released this week and I’m pleased to tell you that they are both worth watching. Funny, ain’t it?
The first is called “Martian Child” starring the lovely and talented John Cusack. It’s the story of a science fiction author, a widower–an admitted oddball, in that he doesn’t conform, but I couldn’t really see anything odd about him…other than his fashion choices, but that’s just me…after a good deal of emotional push me pull you, he takes on a troubled child with the hope that he will eventually adopt him. The young boy believes that he is a Martian. He spends his time outdoors inside a cardboard box. He believes that he has a sensitivity to the sun’s rays. Okay, that’s quirky, but it’s all right. The story is well paced and it’s got some very cute moments–many of them provided by the even more lovely and talented Joan Cusack (a woman deserving of her own lead in a film, thank you very much) and the interplay between John’s character and the youngster playing the Martian Child. It will tug at your heartstrings without making you feel like you’ve been completely manipulated. It was directed by the same guy who wrote the screenplay for “The Color Purple” so he’s got a strong understanding of emotional balance. Mama like.

The second offering is “Dan in Real Life” starring the inexplicably attractive Steve Carell. I don’t get it. The guy is sorta hot. Can’t explain it. Maybe it’s the unabashed vulnerability, maybe it’s the green eyes, I don’t know. This story has the widower angle, but this time he’s got three daughters. He’s a columnist and he’s a little over his head. Two of his daughters are teenagers. ‘Nuff said. The stereotypical, ‘Dad who doesn’t get it-love crazed teen-fighting for independence etc.’ isn’t as hard to swallow thanks to the efforts of all of the actors and much of the dialogue.  The youngest kid is a complete delight without being too ‘cute’. I can’t stand that ‘cutesey’ thing…at all.

Anyway, the cast includes Dianne Wiest. You cannot go wrong with this lady. She always hits a homer, even if she’s in just one scene, you are happy to see her. She’s great in this movie.  The story heats up after ‘Dan’ takes his kids to his parents’ place in coastal RI. The whole family has gathered and while the unfortunately annoying Dane Cook is featured, he’s not so hard to take.  Dan goes out to the local bookstore and ends up spending a couple of hours with the beguiling Juliette Binoche. They part company, Dan is clearly smitten, but will he see her again?
Oh, yes he will because his brother (the aforementioned Dane Cook) is dating her.

Heartwarming hilarity ensues. The soundtrack is a bit on the earnestly indie side, but the performances are worth plunking down your money. It’s sweet and quiet and I found myself tearing up a little bit.
SO, go see these movies…I think you’ll be glad that you did.