Review of Welcome to the Rileys (2010) by Pedro G — 28 Nov 2010

Welcome to the Riley's: Rating 8.1 Have you ever watched someone begin to heal from a tragic loss by giving themselves away in love to another in need? I'm sure you have. And this psychological reality is at the heart of this outstanding film.

On a business trip to New Orleans, Doug Riley, powerfully portrayed by James Gandolofini, is battling deep sorrow over the indescribable loss of his teenage daughter in a car accident. Listless, despondent and just drifting through life, Riley meets a wayward teenager who is making a living as a stripper in a cheap nightclub.

Doug befriends the girl, Mallory, and treats her in a way she has never been treated by a man. He wants nothing from her but to help and support her, and enable her to find a way out of her aimless life.

Kristen Stewart is excellent in a role far different from any previous role you have seen her. Your heart goes out to both Doug, still grieving the loss of his precious daughter and to Mallory who is self destructive in every area of her life.

Added to this drama is Doug's wife Lois ( Melissa Leo from 21 Grams and Frozen River ), who has not left the house since the death of her daughter and blames herself for the automobile accident. We won't give away more of the story, but it is a story of redemption, forgiveness, and healing.

We watched this film together as movie critics as were both moved by it. Its underlying theme of restoration, grace and hope makes it one of the best independent films of the year. Try to catch it. It will not receive wide release.