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Cast: Michael Caine, Bill Milner, Anne-Marie Duff, Rosemary Harris, David Morrissey, Elizabeth Spriggs, Karl Johnson, Leslie Phillips
Set in 1980s seaside England, this is the story of Edward, an unusual ten year old boy growing up in an old people's home run by his parents. Whilst his mother struggles to keep the family business afloat, and his father copes with the onset of mid-life crisis, Edward is busy tape-recording the elderly residents to try and discover what happens when they die. Increasingly obsessed with ghosts and the afterlife, Edward's is a rather lonely existence until he meets Clarence, the latest recruit to the home, a retired magician with a liberating streak of anarchy.
Michael Caine is a celebrated actor that just seems to know and pick the roles that best suit him and this is another great example of just how terrific he is. Caine plays an ex-magician who doesn't want any part of his new home and certainly doesn't want to be bothered by young Edward, but as time goes by he begins to open up to the boy and even teaches him some old tricks. It is the bond these two very different people make that is so special. Bill Milner goes toe to toe with Michael Caine, this kid is an amazing young actor with a very bright future ahead of him. I can sit hear and talk about this film forever but the more I do so the more I would be giving away and that would not be right as this is simply a beautiful film to see for yourself. Is There Anybody There? tells the surprising, touching story of this odd couple - a boy and an old man - facing life together, with Edward learning to live in the moment and Clarence coming to terms with the past. Along the way they both learn important lessons in life and in the end they both are set free from the things that held both of them back. Funny,sad and totally entertaining with a fantastic lead and supporting cast that delivers. If you like drama and comedy then this film is not to be missed. The film is available on DVD and Blu-ray and contains Deleted Scenes.
Released by Magnolia Home Entertainment. ***** Out Of *****