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Published November 5th, 2014
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'St. Vincent'
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| By Derek Zemrak |
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| Oliver (Jaeden Lieberhaer), a young boy whose parents have just divorced, finds an unlikely friend and mentor in the misanthropic, bawdy, hedonistic war veteran, Vincent (Bill Murray) who lives next door. Photo courtesy Weinstein Co. |
Each year one movie becomes the surprise gem that everyone should go see. Last year I said it was "Parkland" and this year it is "St. Vincent," starring Bill Murray, Melisa McCarthy, Naomi Watts and Jaeden Lieberhaer.
At first glance one might say, based on the outstanding cast, "St. Vincent" would be a slapstick comedy. It is far from slapstick! It is a 'dramedy' about a young boy, Oliver, who is dealing with his parents' separation. He moves to a new neighborhood, new school and finds an unlikely friend in his new neighbor, Vincent. Oliver finds the good in Vincent, who is a grumpy, unhappy old man. A lesson all of us can learn - that there is good in all people.
Newcomer Jaeden plays Oliver and he does an excellent job opposite the veteran actors, Oscar nominees Murray ("Lost in Translation"), McCarthy ("Bridesmaids") and two-time Oscar nominee Watts ("The Impossible," "21 Grams"). Based on Jaeden's performance, we will see him for years to come.
Murray as Vincent is outstanding and should receive his second Oscar nomination. An unknown fact about Murray - he does not have an agent. You need to call his 800 number and pitch him the role you would like him to play. If Murray likes what he hears, he will call you back. If not, well - so sorry. First time feature film director Theodore Melfi, who also wrote the screenplay, succeeded in his pitch and Murray agreed to the role. Murray worked with Melfi on the script and it truly shines on the big screen. Other supporting cast includes Oscar nominee Terrance Howard ("Hustle & Flow") and Chris O'Dowd ("Bridesmaids," and the 2012 'gem' "The Sapphires" - rent it if you have not seen it.)
"St. Vincent" is my favorite film so far this year. I have seen it now three times. Do yourself a favor and go see this wonderfully acted, scripted and directed movie. If you are not touched by this movie you have missed the point. "St. Vincent" has a PG13 rating with an enjoyable 102 minutes that will make you laugh, cry and learn a valuable lesson in life.
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Lamorinda Weekly, Moraga CA