Movie spotlight
Life as a House
When a man is diagnosed with terminal cancer, he takes custody of his misanthropic teenage son, for whom quality time means getting high, engaging in small-time prostitution, and avoiding his father.
Insights
Plot Summary
A divorced, terminally ill architect, George Monroe, decides to build his dream house from the ground up in his backyard. He enlists his estranged, drug-addicted son, Sam, to help him, hoping to rebuild their relationship before his time runs out. As they work together, George also tries to mend fences with his ex-wife, Robin, and her new partner, their daughter's former nanny, and Sam's girlfriend, Alyssa.
Critical Reception
Life as a House received mixed to positive reviews from critics, with many praising Kevin Kline's performance and the film's emotional depth, while some found the plot to be somewhat predictable or overly sentimental.
What Reviewers Say
Praises Kevin Kline's powerful and nuanced performance.
Appreciates the film's exploration of themes like redemption and second chances.
Notes that the film occasionally veers into melodrama.
Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated the film's emotional story and strong acting, particularly from Kevin Kline, finding it a touching and moving experience. Some viewers felt the plot was predictable, but the overall sentiment was positive.
Awards & Accolades
Kevin Kline received a Golden Globe nomination for Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama.
Fun Fact
The house built for the film was a real, fully functional home and was later put up for sale after production wrapped.
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