Whenever an actor gets to an advanced age, it seems inevitable that they'll eventually play the eccentric old-timer who dispenses sage advice to a wayward youth desperately seeking guidance. In his late-80's, Michael Caine has done the role twice, first in Secondhand Lions with Robert Duvall and now in Is Anybody There?, directed by John Crowley (Intermission, Boy A).
Bill Milner from Son of Rambow plays Edward whose parents (David Morrissey & Anna-Marie Duff) struggle to make ends meet while running an old folks' home. Edward tries to understand life and death by attempting to record a dying resident's final moments. He's angered by the growing distance between his parents, especially when Dad becomes infatuated with their young housekeeper. Edward's growing resentment is exacerbated when he's ejected from his bedroom to make way for a Clarence (Caine), a retired magician who still tools around in his camper top filled with magical knick knacks.
Clarence is downright hostile when he first arrives and Edward is none too pleased either. Soon, they become fast friends with Clarence teaching the little lad a few tricks to win over his schoolmates. In exchange, Edward does his best to care for Clarence as his heartbreaking senility sets in.
Other than an exceptional performance by Michael Caine, there's nothing truly noteworthy about Is Anybody There. The story is fairly predictable and filled to the brim with a copious amount of sentimentality. Important life lessons are learned as the film tries to wring every sappy tear out of the easily moved.
Rating: **
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