A Man Called Otto

“Fall in love with the grumpiest man in the world,” says the poster for A Man Called Otto. And as unbelievably presumptuous as that tagline is, it’s somewhat true. A Man Called Otto is a beautiful story, a story about life, a heartwarming promise that the sun will come out tomorrow.

The story follows a superb Tom Hanks – a very cranky, very sad homeowner with a heart of gold – living in a picturesque suburb where the snow is stark white and beautiful, and the homes are postcard perfect. Otto is surrounded by cheery, friendly neighbors, whom he (lovingly?) christens “idiots.” When a young family moves in across the street from him, they begin to draw him out of his shell of sorrows to embrace life to the fullest.

There’s not much to say about this one, except that it’s a thoroughly charming story about love and friendship, and the importance of asking for help. Everyone has their own problems but with each other’s support they begin to surmount their difficulties.

Otto “likes people… to leave him alone.” But his grayscale life is filled with color when he begins again to connect with those around him: Marisol, Tommy, Jimmy, Reuben, and Anita. A beautiful must-watch. ☺️