Review of Reign Over Me (2007) by Melissa A — 01 Apr 2010

There is nothing worse in life than suddenly losing someone you love, and for Charlie played by Adam Sandler, the loss of his beloved wife and three children after the September 11th attacks are memories he would rather bury deep within then ever acknowledge again. Continuing to live in denial and isolation, Charlie meets his old College friend Alan played by Don Cheadle who is dissatisfied with his career, his inability to connect with his wife and kids and life in general. Alan begins to find happiness again and a real purpose as his friendship with Charlie deepens but soon realizes he must do whatever it takes to not give up on someone who has already given up on himself.

Whether you actually mourned the loss of someone close to you during September 11th, or just felt compassion towards those whose lives were forever changed that day, this is a movie you will never forget. I couldnâ??t have asked for a better pairing as the bond between Alan and Charlie never seemed forced and they were both genuinely committed to their roles. Adam Sandler is known mostly for comedic roles, but he certainly proves that his talents are not limited to one genre. I also thought that although only a very brief part, Donald Sutherland as the judge gave a great performance. Overall, an inspiring movie that really shows how someone can come back into our lives after years of absence and still help to transform us even in times of crisis.