Stranger than Fiction (2006)

I’ve loved watching Will Ferrell’s work since I was a kid. Sure, a lot of his work consists of him playing characters who are more loud and obnoxious than I can be but for me, that’s what makes him such a joy to watch. Sometimes in life, it’s the simplest things that can tickle our funny bone and for me, that’s Will Ferrell. But, if there’s something else I love, it’s when a comedic actor takes on a more serious role. It shows what that person can be truly capable of and I got to see that with Ferrell in Stranger than Fiction. Having the guy make me cry was not something I thought I would ever see on my bingo card but I guess the world just loves to surprise me every now and then. It’s been a while since I’ve seen something fresh and original, so this film really felt like a breath of fresh air. It had comedy, drama, and a story that kept my absorbed and heavily focused mind glued to the screen at all times. I had no idea where the story would go but without spoiling too much, it hits you in the feels when it gets to those parts. I have more to add to this engaging experience, so let’s open the book on this one.

     Will Ferrell stars as Harold Crick, a quiet IRS agent whose routine life unravels when he starts hearing the voice of an author (Emma Thompson) narrating his existence. It’s an incredible story about this man and his journey of self-discovery, love, and meaning in his mundane life. The film also features a stellar cast that includes Dustin Hoffman, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Queen Latifah, and Tony Dale, who all give exceptional performances as well. It’s not very often that I’m unable to pick a favorite character in a film but I think that’s the case here, because I thought these actors added so much to their characters and made them all stand out in their own unique way. However, I would have to say that both Will Ferrell and Emma Thompson were probably the standouts here. Ferrell being able to make me both laugh and cry throughout was a rare and amazing feat and Thompson, who crushes it in pretty much everything, really brought a lot to a character with writer’s block and whose personality is more complex than mine. Of course, I do have to also give credit to writer Zach Helm and Director Marc Forster, who brought this original and astonishing piece to life. If there’s anyone who can achieve that, it’s definitely the writer and director. Actually, who am I kidding? It’s always the entire cast and crew that makes a good movie. This kind of film could never have been made without any of them. I’m sure I’ve made this clear more than once and if so, I can’t count the number of times that I have, but I’m always on the lookout for something fresh and original. And I couldn’t be more glad that I got that here.

     I’m sure there’s someone smarter than me who would disagree but I can’t think of one negative thing to say about this movie. It kept me interested throughout and I found myself asking a lot of questions as it went along. Overall, I would have to give this movie a perfect 10 out of 10. But don’t let my opinion sway you. Half the time I have no clue what I’m talking about so I’d rather just leave that up to you. I will say this though, if you want to see Will Ferrell in what might actually be his best role or if you’re looking for something fresh and original as well, then I would definitely recommend this film. A clever, heartfelt gem with something to say.