It’s been ages since I’ve seen a movie that I’ve wanted to blog about. Last night, with nothing appealing to watch on TV and having no Netflix DVDs lying around, I decided to watch a movie on my laptop via Netflix’s instant movies online. I chose to watch a 2007 film called The Visitor. Here’s the Netflix blurb:
Widowed professor Walter Vale (Richard Jenkins, in an Oscar-nominated role) discovers an immigrant couple, Tarek (Haaz Sleiman) and Zainab (Danai Gurira), squatting in his Manhattan flat and becomes wrapped up in their lives when Tarek is thrown into a detention center. A wonderful Hiam Abbass co-stars as Tarek’s mother, who forges an unlikely connection with Walter. Thomas McCarthy won a Best Director Independent Spirit Award for his touching drama.
This is a movie all about emotions rather than action or even dialogue. Richard Jenkins is superb. Actually, all four of the key players are wonderful, but watching the character Walter Vale “come to life” because of his encounter with these three immigrants touched my heart in inexplicable ways.
Oh, and I think I want to get one of those drums.
~rlh~
I loved The Visitor and admit I want one of the drums too. Have you seen The Station Agent? It was written and directed by the same man, Thomas McCarthy. It is also a character study, about strangers who form friendships, and is equally as good. I can’t wait for more from him.
Melinda, I haven’t seen The Station Agent, but it is now in my Netflix queue. Thanks for the recommendation.
I also really loved this movie. I’m so glad you enjoyed it as well.