St. Vincent

In recent years, Bill Murray has become an unlikely folk hero, travelling around the United States imparting wisdom at bachelor parties, being a guest bartender at random bars and just doing things Bill Murray would do. His recent Renaissance has given his career a new life other than just being remembered for 80s comedies. This latest film (and debut from Theodore Melfi) may not exactly be a career defining film, but it certainly cements his position as both a comedic and dramatic actor.

Vin (Murray) is ageing war veteran retiree who lives in Brooklyn and spends most of his days drinking or cavorting with Russian prostitute Daka (Naomi Watts). One day, single mother Maggie (Melissa McCarthy) moves in next door with her young son Oliver (Jaeden Lieberher). Vin becomes Oliver's babysitter when Maggie fails to return home after work one day and the two begin an unlikely friendship.

Although Melfi's script is a little predictable at parts, there are some surprising moments of sadness and comedy littered throughout and these are aided along by the entirely convincing performances from both Murray and Lieberher. The moments of sadness and heartbreak that come are touching but also do a fantastic job in building the character of Vin.

Murray's career spanning four decades has given him the skills to be able to alternate between comedy and drama with ease, so it's hardly surprising that he is a wonder here. But the true star is young Jaeden Lieberher, who doesn't have all those years of experience. His character of Oliver has a certain naïvety that soon drops once he begins to spend time with Vin and I can't help feeling that that has something to do with the chemistry between Murray and Lieberher.

The supporting cast acts as a great backup to these two mains. Melissa McCarthy's recent string of films has really worn on me and I don't find her coarse comedy funny at all, but here she has wound it all the way back and isn't searching for or stealing the spotlight, instead becoming a part of a fluid machine, thus becoming more enjoyable to watch. Naomi Watts is another actor who has never really grabbed me, but her gruff portrayal of a pregnant Russian stripper and prostitute is great to watch. As always, Chris O'Dowd is fantastic in a comedic role that isn't Roy.

Verdict: While it may not be a fantastic comedy or drama, St. Vincent is a great movie to get you through a quiet afternoon.