Review of Hello, My Name Is Doris (2015) by Kj P — 23 Aug 2016

Some of the best films of 2016 have been coming from smaller, more independent studios, and while that it usually the case each year, this year in particular needs all of the little gems it can get. It what has been a pretty dour year at the cinemas, films like Eddie the Eagle, Everybody Wants Some, and The Lobster were the true surprises. Sure, audiences received a fantastic film in the highly anticipated Captain America: Civil War and were blown away by what Disney presented in The Jungle Book and Finding Dory, but they were too few and far between this year. Hello, My Name is Doris is a film that may not be for everyone, but it a great film nevertheless. Although it is not one of my favourites of the year, here is why it earns a glowing recommendation.

Sally Field has been known for her elegance when it comes to the feature film world, but has also been known for starring in big blockbusters. Going somewhat out of her comfort zone, she is almost unrecognizable as this title character. After working a boring desk job for years, a new manager enters the company who is decades younger than her. Developing a very friendly and offbeat relationship with each other, this film becomes a wacky, yet believable romance film, that is one of the quirkiest films I have seen in years. Relying on the chemistry between Sally Field's portrayal of Doris and Max Greenfield's portrayal of John, audiences will either buy into their performances and end up loving this film, or they will feel the complete opposite. In my opinion, they could not have picked a better actress to portray the title character, as I found myself chuckling and smiling at almost every word she said.

While I did not find myself immediately engaged at the beginning of this film, due to the very offbeat feel, I was able to adapt to the story at hand, solely due to the likeable leads. Having a woman in her early 70's falling for a man in his mid 30's is a bit of a stretch, but anything is possible when it comes to love. "Sometimes love makes you do crazy things." This is a quote in the film, which has been said for years and years by many people, but that is what I believe the message of this film is. No matter what age you are, love can trump all. These actors made you believe that a situation like this could be possible. That is where the films strong point exists.

The idea of having an elderly woman partying with a young man in a club filled with techno music seems amusing enough right? Well, if you take that personality and have an actress like Sally Field give it all she has throughout the entire duration of the film, it will keep a very big smile on your face. This is also where I have a complaint. Although Sally Field gives arguably one of her best performances here, it also comes off as a bit excessive at times, and this is where I feel certain audiences members may be turned off, even if they are into the film. Her performance almost becomes a little too quirky, almost to appeal herself to the crowd that is her age. That is a minor issue, but it does linger throughout the film, annoying me on a few occasions.

This is by no means groundbreaking, but the fact that I was delighted throughout the entire film definitely says something. I found myself becoming very much attached to the character of Doris, and felt that each and every side character was reacting and interacting with her as if this was a real person. There is very much a present realism surrounding this picture and although I have some issues with the film as a whole, it is just a joy to watch. The ending is definitely a conversation starter, but I thought it was perfect. I had a very good time watching Hello, My Name is Doris, and although I highly recommend it, it definitely is not for everyone.