Release Date: Dec 25, 2013
Runtime: 1 hr. 54 min.
Director: Ben Stiller
Cast: Ben Stiller, Kristen Wiig, Patton Oswalt, Shirley MacLaine, Adam Scott, Sean Penn.
Sometimes the smallest of adventures entail the greatest leaps of faith, and for "Walter Mitty," it's all about taking the plunge. Directed by and starring Ben Stiller in the role, it's a loose adaptation of the short story by James Thurber. When we first meet Mitty, he's a habitual daydreamer, fantasizing about ventures of heroic feat. But when his job at Life magazine nears to an imminent end, it's up to him to salvage their last issue at the risk of his wariness. A story about taking chances and living life to the fullest, it's an adage we all strive by in our everyday existence. Augmented by picturesque backdrops and artful motifs, the film's an unexpected turn for Stiller as director. As someone who's mainly focused on outlandish comedies, it's an experimental gamble that graciously pays off. As a result, it's less about the whimsy than having a positive sendoff, which is further enhanced by a memorable soundtrack. That's not to say the film is free from adversities, as it slows and simmers when it's not indulging in fantasies. Kristen Wiig's character lacks any form of substance, primarily standing in as the love interest of our protagonist. Though Stiller's Mitty is no stretch for the actor, he still encompasses the qualities that make him relatable. As we follow him on his quest for self-confidence, it's when we discover our own need to break free from the monotony. Wiig's character sums it best by saying, "life is about courage and going into the unknown." In time, Mitty does learn to let go and explore his potential, giving us a feel good movie that's as simple as that.
Rating: 3½ stars
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