Rosenthal adapted the work from a series of short stories by Etgar Keret, and the films lack of a traditional narrative focus seems to reflect this; its all over the place. Still, thats not necessarily a bad thing. The appeal here is that this movie is very much not another predictable slosh through cheap, rehashed philosophy and maudlin sentiment. Its a strange, textured, multi-level meditation on life; an engaging spectacle; and a surprisingly whimsical take on some very heavy issues (death, loneliness, lack of purpose or meaning in life) that doesnt take all the easy ways out.
$9.99 opens Friday at the Esquire Theater, 590 Downing Street. Tickets are $9.75 general admission and $7.25 for seniors, students and matinees. For showtimes and more info, visit www.landmarktheatres.com.
July 24-30, 2009