Review of Solitary Man (2009) by Carrie S — 02 Jul 2010

Michael Douglas plays Ben, a powerful New York Socialite whose life slowly begins to fall apart financially, socially, and romantically, due to the choices he has made in his life. Michael Douglas does a good job, as Ben. He is pretty much playing the same type of character he always plays, but there is a little more vulnerability here; at least as the film progresses.

Ben is a fast talker, whom sleeps around with woman whom are young enough to be his granddaughter. He seems to talk to the talk, but as the film progresses, we learn that this is more due to his own insecurities. The film is really about a man's fear of losing control and growing old. We see Ben view the world in such a pessimistic no bullshit approach, but it is really because he is scared of the future and doesnt want to accept that things change in time.

The supporting cast is very strong with Danny Devito, Susan Sarandon, Jesse Eisenberg, and Jenna Fischer all giving smart, small but important performances. The script is very well written; its delivery of theme is strong, never being overbearing but rather letting us the viewer figure things out along the way; much how Ben's character does in the film. My personal favorite scenes revolve around these transitional moments between Michael Douglas and Danny Devito's character, as well as the final scene.

Solitary Man is definitely worth checking out. Its very simple, strong story telling. The direction is very basic but it works for the story.