The Visitor

A lonely, widowed professor, Walter Vale, travels to New York City to attend a conference. Upon arriving at his vacant apartment, he discovers a young couple, an undocumented Syrian man named Tarek and his Senegalese girlfriend Zainab, living there after their previous tenant, a musician friend of Tarek's, sublet it without permission. Walter reluctantly allows them to stay for a short period, and an unlikely friendship begins to form between him and Tarek, especially over their shared love of jazz piano.

The Visitor was widely acclaimed by critics, earning praise for its sensitive and nuanced portrayal of human connection and immigration issues. It was particularly lauded for its performances, especially from Richard Jenkins in the lead role, and director Tom McCarthy's empathetic storytelling.

• Praise for Richard Jenkins's understated and deeply moving performance.

• Appreciation for the film's gentle exploration of loneliness and cross-cultural friendship.

• Admiration for Tom McCarthy's subtle direction and authentic portrayal of immigrant struggles.

Google audience: Audiences generally appreciated 'The Visitor' for its touching story about connection and empathy, highlighting Richard Jenkins's performance and the film's thoughtful look at immigration.

Richard Jenkins was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role. The film also received an Independent Spirit Award nomination for Best Film and Best Director.

Richard Jenkins learned to play the piano for his role as Walter Vale, practicing for several months to achieve a believable level of skill for the character.