Henry Poole is sad. Sad and angry. No, make that sad, angry and just a little mean. Initially, we don't know why but, naturally, we eventually find out, but EVER. SO. SLOWLY.
What we do know is that he's newly arrived in a small Californian suburb where everybody knows your business, sometimes before you do - and that doesn't bode well for a man who would rather be hiding under a rock somewhere no other humans congregate.
Unfortunately for poor old Henry, a miracle occurs in his backyard and his dreams of solitude are shattered but, in exchange, he gains something so much more valuable; redemption, freedom and the ability to smile again.
There's no doubt this is a beautiful film, one that is lovingly shot and sympathetically cast, however it sits smack damn in the middle of the road between being a wonderful, heartwarming tear-jerker filled with poignant life lessons and a rather average, overly slow, wannabe lesson on the power of faith.
If you've ever been sad or lonely or just felt a little hopeless (and who hasn't?), you'll probably enjoy it - or at the very least be thinking of it - and grumpy old Henry - long after you watch this film.
What we do know is that he's newly arrived in a small Californian suburb where everybody knows your business, sometimes before you do - and that doesn't bode well for a man who would rather be hiding under a rock somewhere no other humans congregate.
Unfortunately for poor old Henry, a miracle occurs in his backyard and his dreams of solitude are shattered but, in exchange, he gains something so much more valuable; redemption, freedom and the ability to smile again.
There's no doubt this is a beautiful film, one that is lovingly shot and sympathetically cast, however it sits smack damn in the middle of the road between being a wonderful, heartwarming tear-jerker filled with poignant life lessons and a rather average, overly slow, wannabe lesson on the power of faith.
If you've ever been sad or lonely or just felt a little hopeless (and who hasn't?), you'll probably enjoy it - or at the very least be thinking of it - and grumpy old Henry - long after you watch this film.