Kevin Kline stars as George, a down-on-his-luck architect in this tearjerker from Irwin Winkler (At First Sight, Guilty By Suspicion). A disdainful local character who draws disapproval from the community, particularly his neighbor played by Mary Steenburgen, George sets out to change his life after suddenly losing his longtime job and discovering he's terminally ill (he has cancer). Attempting to reconnect with his estranged and troubled son, Sam (Hayden Christiansen), George endeavors to spend the summer they have together building his dream home by the sea. The laborious process leads to the rebuilding of dissipated relationships, the birth of new ones, and all-around healing. ~ Rachel Deahl, Rovi
This was absolutely an amazing movie. It's deep and truly touching. It's a reality movie and is an actual view of a dissembled family. There's gradual change from the very beginning to the end of this movie, that its actually so fast to catch in the moment. It's honestly become my favorite.
What a surprise. The movie started out very slowly and seemed to be very formulaic and predictable, which it generally was. However it had enough twists and funny turns that it was very enjoyable. You knew what was coming at the end but it was still fairly emotional. And the very final ending was unexpected and very nice. Kline was a little weak -- I never really felt much for his character but far more for the others. This movie was completely overlooked for some reason.
This movie will touch everyone, in very personal ways. Joy, sorrow, regret, hope, love, anger, laughter, tears...it's all there, just like in all our lives.
And is there a more versatile, multi-talented, and convincing actor around than Kevin Kline? Hamlet...Fish Called Wanda...Sophie's Choice...French Kiss...De-Lovely...Life As a House...I challenge any actor today (or many of yesteryear) to tackle such a range of characters and emotions, plus do it as well as Kevin.
Why this film didn't get more publicity is beyond me! I enjoyed all the characters--they were quirky, human and believable. It made me think about how people interact with one another, even in the face of extreme pain and sorrow. And the level of forgiveness in this film is heartwrenching. I would highly recommend it!
I accidently wrote about the wrong movie. Sorry to everybody. This one was really good too and even though it made me cry(yes I cry a lot) it was a very good movie. Cancer is something that touches many of us in many unfair ways.
The story line was really great, however I do think that some of the scenes could have been left out. You will know what I am talking about when you see it. I would not watch this with younger kids.
An excellent tear jerker. The acting I think was wonderful, and the metaphorical connection with the house between Kevin Kline and Hayden Christensen's characters was also good. Strongly recommend if you want a good drama and that you are old enough to watch.
I really enjoyed this movie. If you have ever taken your life or the people who surround you for granted, this movie is for you. I have watched at least 10 movies rated at 4 stars lately, and this was the only one that I feel actually deserved 4+ stars. There are some funny scenes and some sad scenes. Overall, this is a great story of life.
Has a made for TV, feel to it. But this feature has a good message, as well as a good Cast of actors, beautiful scenery, etc. The end is powerful and inspiring
Not sure why I didn't give it 5 stars, this movie was great. Kevin Kline was superb- I'm sharing movies I've seen with a friend, and what a departure for him after watching A Fish Called Wanda. A movie about developing character, growth, relationships.