Owing its DNA to E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial and Cocoon, the latest alien flick to invade theaters is a sweet and charming little gem called Jules. While it will never carry the same impact as either of those films, and will most assuredly go largely overlooked, you would be doing yourself a huge disservice to dismiss this film which is directed by Marc Turtletaub (Little Miss Sunshine) and stars Ben Kingsley, Jane Curtin, and Zoe Winters.
Kingsley is Milton, a small town, set-in-his-ways senior who has an alien encounter when a spaceship suddenly crash lands in his back yard, taking out his azaleas and destroying his bird bath. After meeting the spaceship’s little blue pilot, Milton invites him into his home, and despite not being able to communicate, the two manage to forge a rudimentary interspecies rapport.
It’s not long before word gets out about the alien visitor to neighbors Sandy (Harriet Sansom Harris, Phantom Thread) and Joyce (Curtin) who name the little guy Jules. Together the three conspire to keep Jules hidden from the town’s residents as well as from the dressed-in-black NSA agents who are furiously searching for the mysterious craft.
Meanwhile, Milton’s middle-aged daughter Denise (Winters), who hears of her father’s curious public behavior, and who is already struggling with the notice of a decline in his mental acuity, is never quite sure what to do as she attempts to balance her father’s need for medical evaluation, with his desire for independence.
As Milton navigates the challenges of his twilight years, Turtletaub encourages viewers to reflect on our own lives. The exploration of Milton’s struggles to find meaning in the face of declining faculties strikes a universal chord, reminding us to cherish each moment and cultivate purpose regardless of our circumstances. The way in which Gavin Steckler’s screenplay juxtaposes poignant moments with lighthearted humor underscores the complexity of the human experience, allowing the audience to both empathize and chuckle in recognition.
Jules is not without its imperfections, however. Just a minor gripe, but while the film's emotional resonance is evident, it occasionally falls short of delivering the profound impact it aims for. We’re left yearning for a deeper connection to Milton’s, Sandy’s, and Joyce’s inner worlds. A stronger emotional tether could have transformed the film from exceptional to truly unforgettable. Regardless, Jules’ multifaceted exploration of themes compensates by keeping us fully engaged and invested.
Jules is a cinematic treasure that strikes a harmonious chord between science fiction, humor, and meaningful introspection – attributes that don’t traditionally go together. Its unique storyline and thought-provoking themes are a rarity in today's cinematic landscape, making it a must-watch for those seeking a film that challenges conventions and encourages profound contemplation.
As we accompany Jules on his transformative journey, we are reminded that the human spirit's resilience and adaptability can shine even in the face of life's most formidable challenges. While it may not achieve the full emotional resonance it aspires to, Jules undeniably leaves an indelible mark on its viewers, sparking conversations and reflections that extend far beyond the confines of the theater.
MPAA Rating: PG-13.
Runtime: 90 mins
Director: Marc Turtletaub
Writer: Gavin Steckler
Cast: Ben Kingsley; Harriet Sansom Harris; Zoe Winters
Genre: Comedy | sci-fi | Drama
Tagline: You won't believe what just crashed into Milton's Azaleas.
Memorable Movie Quote:
Theatrical Distributor: Bleeker Street
Official Site:
Release Date: August 11, 2023
DVD/Blu-ray Release Date:
Synopsis: Milton lives a quiet life of routine in a small western Pennsylvania town, but finds his day upended when a UFO and its extra-terrestrial passenger crash land in his backyard.
