Jules (2023) (dir. Marc Turtletaub)
It’s funny to have watched the movie Jules while prepping for a library event all about potential cosmic visitors called “Close Encounters with UFOs.” Been doing some research, planning the flyer and trying to promote a book display that proclaims “the truth is out there.” So here comes along a story that fits right in line with where I’ve been as of late that I can’t help but review.
That being said, Jules is simply a middle-of-the-road indie dramedy that doesn’t have a lot of aspirations to stand out from the crowd aside from ensuring great work from its cast. On one hand, that’s okay especially for an audience that isn’t looking for something too heady or profound. It’s a nice, simple story featuring down-to-earth characters experiencing something special and when it’s over, there isn’t too much to contemplate in regards to a deeper meaning.
It concerns a lonely aging man named Milton played by Ben Kingsley. He goes through his day not getting along with his daughter, going to the occasional public meeting, talking to his friends (Jane Curtin and Harriet Sansom Harris) and not much else outside of watching CSI. One night a flying saucer crashes into his backyard. Efforts to tell the authorities go nowhere. It’s an interesting idea to bring the possibility of dementia into the foreground without specifically giving it a diagnosis. The fact is, no one believes him because they think he’s hallucinating.
Finding the alien pilot in his yard, compassionate Kingsley tries to care for him. He is given the name Jules (and Gary) by those he’s closest with and eventually discovers for themselves what he’s been up to. Over time Kingsley and his friends interact with the pilot, who never speaks and never changes facial expression, and they find that their lives, pilot included, are slowly altered. There are even some surprises along the way including a special gift that Jules/Gary possesses.
Cocoon was certainly a special film for its time and struck a chord with my entire family. I wasn’t expecting something on that level but Jules really just aims to be a pleasant film that works as is thanks to the cast of quirky characters involved. Harriet Sansom Harris, in particular, is someone who deserves a leading role entirely on her own at this point because she’s always great. It goes without saying that Kingsley can really do no wrong even when he’s being subtle and calm.
Aging is an undeniable part of the human experience however, it’s not something we embrace. Jules comes at a very vulnerable time in Milton’s life when his memory may be fading. The alien creature doesn’t say a word but just the presence of something new is enough to bring him back to life while also managing to strengthen the few connections he has in his life with two acquaintances. That’s not to say there aren’t some missteps including a bizarre musical moment involving a rendition of “Freebird” and the choice to involve dead animals which happen to be my favorite kind of animal. It’s not gruesome and it’s mostly played for levity, but still.
Overall, Jules is a movie that is worth seeking out if you’re a fan of Harris or Kingsley and how could you not be. The story deals tenderly with seniors feeling isolated, as well as finding time for some light humor in the process. I was left yearning for a deeper connection to Milton’s, Sandy’s and Joyce’s inner life and maybe some bigger ideas, but it’s not a bad way to spend 90 minutes. Not to mention the alien itself is strangely soothing simply just by being there for these people at the right place at the right time. It turns out, we’re not alone in the world after all. Even as our bodies & brains start to wear and tear, there may be some hope to look forward to, both near us and far away.
