St. Vincent (M)
Starring: Bill Murray, Melissa McCarthy, Naomi Watts
JUST how old is Bill Murray, anyway?
A sprightly 64 years, in case you were wondering.
And judging by his performance in this film, every one of those years has gone into making him the comic genius he is today.
Murray brings rare pathos to the lead role of Vincent MacKenna, a down-and-out, decrepit old man living in an equally decrepit old house.
His bank account is overdrawn, and so is his life – his wife is in care with dementia, his girlfriend is an exotic dancer and hooker, and his car is likely older than he is.
Into this diminishing existence come new neighbours, in the form of single mum Melissa McCarthy and her son, Oliver.
Oliver soon strikes up a relationship with the grumpy old curmudgeon, and it is this odd couple buddy comedy that forms the core of this delightful film.
Vincent teaches him to fight, to gamble, and most other life lessons a growing boy needs.
Along the way, he realises that Vincent is a modern-day saint who walks among us – becoming the St. Vincent of the title.
St. Vincent is great, heart-warming family movie fare that hits its mark perfectly – it’s not remotely babyish, and has more than enough interest for both adults and those in the early teen bracket or so. Be warned, however, that it’s probably a little racy in parts for those much younger.
This film is more than it seems on the surface, and is a thoroughly satisfying meal.
– Jason Beck
