This post is part of my movie-a-day challenge in which I will watch a film every day for 365 days. Today is Day 101! You can see all the posts for this challenge HERE. To see the original Movie-a-Day Challenge post, click HERE.
Yo, friends!
Guess who’s back with another flick breakdown? This time, we’re venturing into the strange and surprisingly heartwarming territory of “Jules,” the 2023 film directed by the ever-so-charming Marc Turtletaub. Buckle up, because this one’s got aliens, retirees, and enough feels to rival a Taylor Swift song (but way less sparkly, thank goodness).
So, the story revolves around Milton, a seemingly ordinary dude in his late 70s, played by the legendary Ben Kingsley (who, let’s be honest, could make reading the phone book captivating). His quiet life gets turned upside down when a UFO crash-lands in his backyard, and out stumbles Jules, a pint-sized alien with big ol’ eyes and zero chill. Milton, being the kind soul he is, takes Jules under his wing, even though the little fella communicates mainly through squiggles and expressive eyebrows (think Mr. Bean on caffeine).
Now, this isn’t your typical alien invasion flick. There are no laser beams, no government conspiracies, just good old-fashioned human connection (with a sprinkle of extraterrestrial weirdness, of course). Milton, along with his two equally spunky retiree buddies, forms an unlikely friendship with Jules, each one learning and growing from the experience. Kingsley absolutely nails the quiet vulnerability of Milton, while the supporting cast brings the laughs and the warmth. Seriously, watching these seasoned actors bounce off each other is like watching grumpy kittens frolic – adorable and surprisingly entertaining.
But “Jules” isn’t just about giggles and goo-goo eyes (though there are plenty of those, thanks to Jules’ adorable antics). It’s about facing your fears, embracing the unknown, and finding beauty in the most unexpected places. It’s the kind of movie that lingers with you long after the credits roll, making you ponder the vastness of the universe and the small wonders of human connection.
Now, is “Jules” perfect? Nah, not really. The pacing can be slow at times, and the ending might leave some viewers wanting more. But hey, sometimes a slow burn is exactly what you need to appreciate the simple joys of life, right?
So, should you add “Jules” to your watchlist? If you’re looking for an action-packed thrill ride, then maybe not. But if you’re in the mood for a quirky, heartwarming story with stellar performances and a healthy dose of alien charm, then absolutely! You’ll be treated to a cinematic journey that’s both out-of-this-world and deeply human. ❤️
And remember, the universe is a strange and wonderful place, so keep your eyes peeled for the extraordinary, even if it crash-lands in your backyard. ✌️
Hasta Manaña,
Roger