Synopsis: A Man Called Otto tells the story of Otto Anderson (Tom Hanks), a grump who no longer sees purpose in his life following the loss of his wife. Otto is ready to end it all, but his plans are interrupted when a lively young family moves in next door, and he meets his match in quick-witted Marisol. She challenges him to see life differently, leading to an unlikely friendship that turns his world around. A heartwarming and funny story about love, loss, and life, A Man Called Otto shows that family can sometimes be found in the most unexpected places.
Don’t let things that are out of your control dictate the fate of your existence. Whether it be a bad day, bad news, or a rough patch that lasts a tad too long, give yourself time to feel to heal and then work your way back to something that resembles normalcy. As Eric Draven says, “It can’t rain all the time.” and things will get better.
“The whole neighborhood is falling apart these days.”
Who doesn’t love a grumpy old man with nothing to do but pester his neighbors and yell at strangers? His neighbors. Directed by Marc Forster, A Man Called Otto is a charming reminder that there is always something to live for. Based on the best-selling novel, A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman as well as a film of the same name by Hannes Holm, this American rendition of Swedish works is delightful despite its grim premise. Even with its looming black cloud of emotion ever present, the film offers hope and joy in the face of tremendous pain and suicidal thoughts. This is a heartwarming and relatable story featuring characters you can empathize with and enough laughs to subdue the tears.
“I am not unfriendly.”
This is a film that is hard not to enjoy. While it may not have as much darkness to escape from as its source material, its probably as dark as our society can handle outside of horror. While it still tackles a harsh reality, it opts to focus more of the positives and attempts at happiness of the stories arc. The performances are great, the writing is snappy, and overall, you’re left feeling incredibly uplifted. Oh, before I forget, not only does Tom Hanks star in the film but his youngest son, Truman appears in the film as a young Otto Anderson. Also, I’m pretty sure that I heard the musical stylings of Chet Hanks coming through some car speakers. I enjoyed A Man Called Otto more than I ever expected to. It’s a gem that I hope everyone can find. Its rewatchability is high.
Pacing & Pop
The pacing of the film is smoother than expected. With subject matter relatively darker than most, the story flows effortlessly as Otto’s transformation takes place. What popped for me is how seriously suicide is taken, even if done somewhat lightheartedly. It’s very straightforward and without frills. There’s now pageantry or pity, just a man in the depths of pain and sometimes it’s that simple. Suicide often gets glamorized and made to seem as if bullying or depression are the only causes, it’s just not that simple. While bullying and depression may be palatable answers, the film shows you otherwise while simultaneously reminding us that there are always more reasons to live.
Characters & Chemistry
Starring: Tom Hanks, Mariana Treviño, Rachel Keller, Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Truman Hanks, Mike Birbiglia
Tom Hanks and Mariana Treviño genuinely have some amazing chemistry. From standoffish neighbors to a father-daughter relationship, together, the duo is delightful and endearing. It’s always the unlikely pairings that hit you the hardest in the feels. Treviño as Marisol is vibrant, perceptive, and has a big heart. Tom Hanks’ Otto is what Chris Hardwick would call a “porch dick”, however, Mr. Anderson doesn’t contain his grumpiness to a porch, he’s very mobile.
A Man Called Otto was released in New York and Los Angeles on December 30, 2022. It will have a limited release on January 6, 2023, and a wide release on January 13, 2023. Remain safe and enjoy.
Rated: PG-13 Runtime: 2h 6m Director: Marc Forster Writer: David Magee Based on Novel: A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman Based on Film: A Man Called Ove by Hannes Holm Producers: Fredrik Wikström Nicastro, Rita Wilson, Tom Hanks, Gary Goetzman Executive Producers: Marc Forster, Renée Wolfe, Louise Rosner, David Magee, Michael Porseryd, Tim King, Sudie Smyth, Steven Shareshian, Celia Costas, Neda Backman Tor Jonasson
A Man Called Otto is a charming reminder that there is always something to live for.
-
GVN Rating 7.5
-
User Ratings (0 Votes)
0