Life as a House

Starring: Kevin Kline, Kristin Scott Thomas, Hayden Christiansen, Jena Malone, Scott Bakula
Directed by: Irwin Winkler
Rating: R
Genre: Drama
2001

Times Seen:
Tim: 1

Summary: After a man (Kevin Kline) discovers he is dying of cancer, he decides to finish the project he has been putting off for a lifetime- tear down his old house and build a dream one. He enlists the unwilling help of his rebellious son (Hayden Christiansen), and, as the two work together, they begin to mend not only the house, but all the relationships around them, including the divorced wife (Kristin Scott Thomas) and her new family.

Review:

Tim: This is a powerful, amazing film. Rarely does Hollywood create a film as wonderful as this. The movie is entertaining, yet has a powerful message that could change your life. It is emotionally driven and I doubt very many feeling human beings can withstand the movie without shedding a few tears.

After watching Life as a House, I am more of a Kevin Kline fan after seeing this movie than I ever thought I would be. He gives an unbelievable performance. I had no idea Kline was capable of such a dramatic, incredible performance. I know he won an Academy Award for his supporting role in A Fish Called Wanda, but this is something else entirely. The man is brilliant.

Also, Hayden Christiansen gives a great performance as well. After seeing him in Star Wars: Attack of the ClonesI was not a fan of him at all. I thought he couldn't act very well at all. I was sorely mistaken. He gives a complex and crafted performance here that just adds to the overall feeling of the movie.

Life as a Housegives you an extended metaphor (or simile) and makes you think about it. The film is moving and very happy, but also very sad. Every family (with older children, it is rated R) should see this movie. It just may do them some good.

Rating 1-10
Tim's Rating- 9



If You Enjoyed This Movie, We Recommend: A Fish Called Wanda, Dave, Terms of Endearment, Star Wars: Attack of the Clones, American Beauty