It's rare that a movie hits all the emotional notes in a genuine way, rather than hitting you over the head repeatedly, telling you how you should feel. Fortunately for us, the former is true with 'I'll See You in My Dreams', which is a small indie dramedy by director Brett Haley, which has iconic actress Blythe Danner play one of her best roles yet. Haley uses a soft touch throughout the film as we see new beginnings from people not to far from the end. There are a ton of funny moments with enough subtle drama that mixes into a perfect pie by the end of the film that leaves you wanting more.
Carol (Blythe Danner) has been widowed for more than two decades. She lives in a great home in Southern California where she plays cards with her friends (Rhea Perlman, Mary Kay Place, and June Squibb), who've all moved into the retirement resort down the street. Carol also plays golf and enjoys drinking wine by her pool daily, with her trusty old golden retriever by her side. An unfortunate event takes place that would seem to make Carol go into a deep depression, however it gives her a new lease on life to experience new things. First of which is meeting a young man named Lloyd (Martin Starr), who is her pool boy.
The two realize they have a connection (not necessarily romantic), but more of when two people really need and understand each other. We can see it on Lloyd's face when he and Carol head to a bar for karaoke and he sees Carol sing an excellent rendition of 'Cry Me A River'. Sooner than later though, a new member of the retirement home movies in be the name of Bill (Sam Elliot with mustache and cigar), who takes a liking to Carol, thus giving Carol an opportunity she hasn't had a in a long time to feel complete happiness.
These special moments, all of which we have gone through in our own lives are told her in such a simple and endearing way, that it's difficult not to relate and enjoy this story. It's not all sad moments either as we see Carol and her friends have a late night junk food session after they all decide to smoke marijuana or where Carol goes to a speed dating event at the retirement home where an older gentlemen lays all his cards out on the table, herpes and all. Although there are a few predictable story elements, the emotion, drama, and comedy are all done so perfectly, that you can't help but want to spend more time with each character. 'I'll See You in My Dreams' is a rare catch in this particular genre, one you shouldn't miss.
Carol (Blythe Danner) has been widowed for more than two decades. She lives in a great home in Southern California where she plays cards with her friends (Rhea Perlman, Mary Kay Place, and June Squibb), who've all moved into the retirement resort down the street. Carol also plays golf and enjoys drinking wine by her pool daily, with her trusty old golden retriever by her side. An unfortunate event takes place that would seem to make Carol go into a deep depression, however it gives her a new lease on life to experience new things. First of which is meeting a young man named Lloyd (Martin Starr), who is her pool boy.
The two realize they have a connection (not necessarily romantic), but more of when two people really need and understand each other. We can see it on Lloyd's face when he and Carol head to a bar for karaoke and he sees Carol sing an excellent rendition of 'Cry Me A River'. Sooner than later though, a new member of the retirement home movies in be the name of Bill (Sam Elliot with mustache and cigar), who takes a liking to Carol, thus giving Carol an opportunity she hasn't had a in a long time to feel complete happiness.
These special moments, all of which we have gone through in our own lives are told her in such a simple and endearing way, that it's difficult not to relate and enjoy this story. It's not all sad moments either as we see Carol and her friends have a late night junk food session after they all decide to smoke marijuana or where Carol goes to a speed dating event at the retirement home where an older gentlemen lays all his cards out on the table, herpes and all. Although there are a few predictable story elements, the emotion, drama, and comedy are all done so perfectly, that you can't help but want to spend more time with each character. 'I'll See You in My Dreams' is a rare catch in this particular genre, one you shouldn't miss.