Director: Olivia Newman
Starring: Sally Field, Lewis Pullman, Sofia Black-D'Elia, Joan Chen, Kathy Baker, Colm Meaney, Alfred Molina
Running Time: 111 minutes
Synopsis: In the idyllic seaside community of Sowell Bay, Washington, Tova (Sally Field) is the lonely nighttime cleaning lady at the local aquarium, and still grieving the loss of her teenaged son years ago. Her one true companion is the aging octopus Marcellus (voice of Alfred Molina, who narrates). Cameron (Lewis Pullman) arrives in town looking for his long-lost father, and befriends Tova and local shop owner Avery (Sofia Black-D'Elia). As Tova and Cameron gradually find out more about each other, they confront the past and re-examine their attitudes.
What Works Well: The adaptation of Shelby Van Pelt's best seller is a heartwarming story about human connections, the nature of family, and the ghosts of the past influencing the present. Sally Field finds another great role as Tova, and in several scenes she expresses the pain of profound loss, regret, and unanswered questions. Director Olivia Newman captures a scenic small-town setting (filmed in Deep Cove, British Columbia) populated by gossipy but charming locals (including Joan Chen, Kathy Baker, and Colm Meaney), and crafts the perfect balanced tone between drama, humour, octopus wisdom, and pathos.
What Does Not Work As Well: On a few occasions the plot requires a distinct absence of curiosity to hide crucial revelations until the final act.
Key Quote:
Marcellus (narrating): I can deduce that the cleaning lady and the juvenile share a similar affliction.
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