Dan In Real Life (2007)

Dan Burns (Steve Carell) is a widowed, small-town journalist writing on the perils of raising three daughters. Each daughter is reaching a pivotal moment in their respective lives: Jane (Alison Pill), the oldest, is anxious about driving; Cara (Brittany Robertson), the middle child, has just found true love {as her Dad wrenches her away to this stupid trip} and little Lilly (Marlene Lawston), the youngest, is leaving early childhood behind. Dan is discovering real life isn't as picture perfect as his column. A Burns family home-coming brings Dan back to Rhode Island and the good-natured ribbing of family. Maybe they can't help him figure it out. When Nana (Dianne Wiest) and Poppy (John Mahoney) send Dan out for a newspaper, he meets and falls for Marie (Juliette Binoche) in the book shop. True love blossoms over 'Poop Is', Anna Karenina, and a muffin. In life, plan to be surprised.

Dan in Real Life is a beautiful story celebrating life; but what elevates this movie from 'average', is the solid performances from the ensemble cast. Steve Carell is brilliant. As Dan, he brings a subtly in emotion that rings true. He becomes an 'everyman'--putting the needs of his children before anything else and losing himself along the way. Juliette Binoche is remarkable. Who knew the French-born actress was funny?! Even the bristling Dane Cook taking a turn as Dan's brother Mitch. Emily Blunt also drops in as 'Pigface' Draper, a childhood friend and blind date for Dan.

The screenplay, written by director Peter Hedges and Pierce Gardner examines family dynamics and love, for better or worse. The dialouge is heartfelt without being sappy. It's a perfect balance of comedy and drama. Sadness is tempered by joy, pain by love, and betrayal by forgiveness. The Burns family brings out the best in all of us. The overall quality of the film is beautiful. Also, of note, is the Sondre Lerche soundtrack. Soft and unassuming, the play list is a perfect compliment.

Dan in Real Life charms its way into your heart. The film celebrates the idiosyncrasies of love, family and the sheer randomness of life. Dan in Real Life is a refreshing, tender-hearted film; it's a great escape from the redundant stupidity of more recent films.