People Like Us is a movie top-billed by Chris Pine (Star Trek,Just My Luck), Elizabeth Banks (The Hunger Games,Zac & Miri Make A Porno), Michelle Pfeiffer (Batman Returns,Hairspray) and Olivia Wilde (Tron,Cowboys & Aliens). I found out that its original title was Welcome to People and it was changed to its current name. I do think that either title did not convey the entire story of the film. But not to be discouraged, the actual film turned out to be one of my favorites this year.
As the trailer and previews have teased us, it is about Sam (Pine) having a difficult situation at work that could land him in jail and finds out through his girlfriend, Hannah (Wilde) that his father died. But instead of mourning, Sam looks a bit passive and not affected by this development but he manages to go back home where he is coldly welcomed by his mother (Pfeiffer). We learn that Sam did not have a good relationship with his father, a musician/manager and it worsens when his lawyer gave him a package that contains money to be delivered to a child. This leads to the major developments in the movie about finding out about his sister who is dealing with her own problems and trying to raise a child on her own and several complications in his family and personal life. As he grows closer to his sister and his nephew, he struggles to keep the secret of their real relationship. This is a very dialogue-driven movie and I have to commend the script and the actors for their excellent delivery.
Chris Pine did a good job and proved that he deserves to be one of the leading men in Hollywood, Banks also portrayed her role very well,being a hardworking mother who tries to be strong for her child despite under difficult situations. Michael Hall D'Addario played Banks' son, Josh, in the movie. He was good for most parts though he felt a little awkward in some parts but he has good potential in his future. Pfeiffer, being an incredible actress that she already is, was predictably good. Wilde was able to bring out the best in Pine's character despite her limited scenes with him in the movie. It is quite disappointing that this might not get the recognition it deserves.
What I like most in the movie is that in the middle of watching it, I had a realization that what kept me glued to the film is that I can relate to Sam's character. Having an estranged father whom he doesn't feel affectionate to despite being gone really strikes me. I might be spilling too much but since no one reads this anyway, I can say I know I have another sibling out there. I guess that's the difference between Sam and me, at least I know about my father's extra affairs. In the film, Sam is also portrayed as someone who runs away from his problems all the time and that is how I picture myself, unfortunately. But I hope that just like Sam, I'll be able to face my fears soon and have a better life.
One thing that also made the film good was the music. It had excellent musical score, produced by A.R. Rahman. In the film, Sam also suggested to Josh in a dialogue a playlist, particularly, Gang of Four,The Buzzcocks,Joy Division, The Clash, Joy Division and Television. I better check them out soon.
I strongly recommend this movie to everyone. I miss movies like these. A perfect blend of comedy and drama and a hint of romance,not in an incestuous way, but you will love the chemistry between Sam and his relationships with the people around him.
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