Writer/Director Tamara Jenkins must be commended for her intelligent writing and equally intelligent independent film. It is a story that could easily have been turned into a Hallmark Card, but it is not only smart, funny, and touching, but also painfully realistic. Philip Seymour Hoffman has always been fun to watch on screen, but this year has been especially kind to him. In addition to this film he opened in The Devil Knows You’re Dead, and Charlie Wilson’s War. His on screen excellence is matched by the always wonderful Laura Linney. Together, I think they are the most natural actors in Hollywood. They play brother and sister who are thrust into the reality of caring for a parent who never really cared for them and can no longer function in a retirement community. The aging father is admirably played by Philip Bosco, a gifted character actor you will recognize on screen even though you may not remember his name. The title of the film refers to the family name, though it was, no doubt, chosen for it’s other meanings as well. The film focuses on the middle aged children facing their demons. Author/director Jenkins calls it a "coming of middle age" story. Hints of childhood abuse are never overplayed and though the material can be sad and touching, Jenkins is a master at finding the humor. I liked this movie a lot, but Barbara liked it even more. GRADE A/A-