Much more up my alley (than Wrath of the Titans) is the contemporary comedy drama Jeff, Who Lives at Home, which is written and directed by brothers Jay Duplass and Mark Duplass.  Its essence is a struggle between two dissimilar approaches to getting through life, as represented by two brothers who have grown apart and no longer understand each other.  Being a movie that actually has something to say about life, yet is also entertaining, this is the type of movie that I believe ought to be made more often.  Hollywood, take note.

Jeff (Jason Segel) is a slacker who believes that everything happens for a reason, even if he cannot comprehend the reasoning behind that belief.  His brother Pat (Ed Helms) is an uptight cynic who believes that one takes what one wants out of life. Their relationship collides one memorable day, which involves their mother (Susan Sarandon) and Pat’s wife (Judy Greer), as well as someone, somewhere, named Kevin.  The Duplass’ karmic screenplay argues, quite effectively in my view, that Jeff’s perspective is more beneficial and genuine that Pat’s, but that ultimately they can coexist comfortably because that is what family members do.

I really like how the story (and not just Jeff) elucidates how we should embrace the opportunities that come our way, regardless of their origin, and that just letting go and experiencing the world can be exhilarating and heart-opening.  Sure, sometimes you get mugged, or sensibilities are staggered, but, really, so what?  Life ought to be an adventure, even in its smallest details, and I love movies that remind me of that (probably because I don’t get out of the house that much).  This movie, even with its crudity, drug taking and absurdities, has what I consider the right spirit.  It did not feel contrived or phony; I heartily recommend it.  ✰ ✰ ✰.  3 April 2012.