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Mungles on Movies

 
Film Review  
The Visitor

In theaters May 2nd 2008

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brief strong language
Run Time: 108
Matt's rating - 4 out of 5

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Review by Matt Mungle

Many of us have had periods in our lives when we felt like we were just going through the motions. Existing. But not living. The monotonous routine has cut such a deep rut that we can't see out or over. That is where we find the main character in the new film The Visitor, written and directed by Thomas McCarthy (The Station Agent). Though this film travels light it carries a deep, powerful message about life. And more importantly life invested in the lives of others. It is frustrating to see films like this and realize that they will never get the theatrical presence they deserve. But so goes the industry. I encourage you to look hard at your theater listings. Check the art houses in your area and even if this plays only one weekend, be sure and check it out.

  The story is about Walter Vale (Richard Jenkins), a Connecticut college Professor going through the motions, who has to travel to NY from for a conference. When he arrives he finds a young couple, Tarek and Zainab, living in his apartment. It is an apartment Walter owns but seldom uses. Tarek (Haaz Sleiman) is Syrian and makes a living playing the Jymbe (an African drum) in local jazz clubs while his girlfriend Zainab (Danai Gurira) sells handmade jewelry in NY street markets. Walter and Tarek strike up a friendship that causes Walter to open up and experience life in a, fresh, new, meaningful way. This relationship is an example of how in a world overwhelmed with people we can find those that touch our lives and, in turn, touch theirs as well. It is simple in theory but powerful in result.

The title of the film The Visitor may seem obvious but as the film goes on you realize that each character is visiting in some way or another. The visitor even seemed to me to possibly be events as well as people. Since each character is "visited" by one change or another. Jenkins is the perfect guy to play Walter. He looks like your everyday man on the street. There is commonness about his acting ability that makes it smooth and believable. He also adds the human element that makes his role humorous at times without being forced. He is a real guy. And that is so important in a film like this. Tarek is the total counterpart to Walter. He is outgoing and warm. A guy who has probably never met a stranger. His love for life and music is captivating and Sleiman brings charm and beauty to the role.

  The Visitor is rated PG-13 for brief strong language. There is not an offensive moment in the film and though safe for younger viewers the story line and plot is maybe a bit deep. It is a slow paced film but it never lags or gets tiresome. The story plays out in its characters. Like The Station Agent, McCarthy has created another incredible portrait of human existence and shows that no matter how different two people seem, there is the ability to connect and change a life. I also recommend this film for those who love music. There are scenes shot of NY drum circles and Tarek uses the drum to help draw Walter out of his shell. This creates an inner rhythm to the film that is an added plus. I give The Visitor a very strong 4 out of 5 beats. It will move you for sure.

 

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mattcindymini Matt and Cindy are members of the North Texas Film Critics Association (NTFCA). For additional reviews and interview clips visit the website.

 

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