Who doesn't like Sam Elliott right? Even in a movie that is inherently derivative, about a selfish, generally forgotten actor, who is reexamining his life, Sam Elliott's quietly effective performance; plus that incredible voice of his, should keep your attention either way. Yes the premise is a bit on the derivative side and you can likely predict where the plot is going, but the meditative tone, pacing that takes it's time, some understated but beautiful scenes, and the subject matter itself, makes this movie worth checking out.
With Sam Elliott at the lead as Lee Hayden, the small cast in this is very good. Nick Offerman as Jeremy Frost adds a nice bit of comedy and lightheartedness into this movie, but also allows Elliott to toss in a few bits of jokes as well. Laura Prepon as Charlotte Dylan is fantastic as this woman Lee gets involved with, and she adds that bit of spark and energy into the story in a very welcome way. Offerman and Prepon however are basically there for Sam Elliott to bounce off of, which allows him to display some excellent acting in several of the best scenes of this movie.
The poignancy of the story and the character of Lee Hayden, and the chemistry he has with the other characters, are what carries this movie through and through. Despite the heavy subject matter, it's not a completely dour movie, as it knows when to integrate a bit of fun into the equation, like this joke that got the biggest laugh for those familiar with Sam Elliott's career. It's not the most flashy of movies to watch, nor is it the most original, but it has a lot of heart with a strong emotional base of a theme, and absolutely kept my attention throughout the whole thing; even when it meandered a bit.
lovedit ENJOYED IT itsokayitsmehitsterrible
