Movie Review: A Man Called Otto, directed Marc Forster (four stars)
Poignant, funny tale about a curmudgeon’s reawakening. Many parallels to Pixar’s Up movie. Need to read the book A Man Called Ove again.
Tom Hanks once again displays his unique ability to submerge himself in his role. But he didn’t have to carry the show alone; Mariana Trevino especially added depth and humor.
The young Otto, played by Hank’s son Truman, was played as having a mild personality disorder while the old Otto was just a grump.
Yes, it’s about the end of life, but it’s also about being a blessing to those around you. Every day is a gift.
As a Matter of Fancy 
I thought I remembered watching a movie of the book before. Wasn’t all that impressed; formulaic – and with one of my least favorite subjects. The problem was the book – making light of a very serious subject.
In that sense it was problematic. I did not mention that issue in the review. A movie was man of A Man Called Ove.)
I know. I saw it, pulled in by all the attention to the book. If I hadn’t been watching it with someone else, I would have abandoned that movie when the tone taken was inappropriate in my estimation. Hit way too close to home.
Is the Hanks movie better?
I haven’t seen the other. Hanks is convincing whoever he plays.