A morose, asocial janitor (an Oscar-winning Casey Affleck) is appalled to learn that his late brother has named him the guardian of his 16-year-old nephew, and returns to the title hometown with great reluctance. As this graceful tale of loss and grief unfolds, a window is opened onto a wounded soul, and we learn the reason for this reluctance. Yes, it’s depressing. But writer/director Kenneth Lonergan refuses to put a pretty bow on life’s untidiness. It’s never what you’d call hopeful. But neither is it hopeless. And the occasional, gently satirical comic twists add to its realism. A masterpiece. (137 min)
Don Morton
Don Morton has viewed some 6,000 movies, frequently awake. A bachelor and avid cyclist, he currently divides his time between Tokyo and a high-tech 4WD super-camper somewhere in North America.You may also like
English‑Speaking Babysitters and Housekeeping in Tokyo
Trusted care and help around the home for families in Tokyo
Based in Japan: Life as a Married Gay Couple With Seigo & Bren
A Japanese/American love story
A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean a Japanese Bathroom
How to clean a Japanse bath, shower and more
Tokyo Music Scene: New Releases in June 2024
Your monthly dose of new music from Japan
Tokyo Trends: Five Chrome Silver Accessories to Buy in Tokyo
It’s all acubi and blokette this season -- here's where to buy the look
Where to Drink Japanese Tea in Tokyo: Matcha, Houjicha and Wagashi
Where to go for an authentic steep
Pop Art Meets Architecture in the Nakamura Keith Haring Collection
A pop culture icon on the slopes of Mount Yatsugatake