Jules (2023) — Movie Review

In the movie "Jules," the notion of older Americans grappling with technology and solitude takes center stage. However, the twist here involves an encounter with an alien being. It is set in Boonton, Pennsylvania, a quaint town where a spaceship crash goes unnoticed. The story centers on Milton Robinson, portrayed by Ben Kingsley. He's an isolated senior whose life involves routine encounters with his daughter Denise, a veterinarian, and the city council meetings he frequents.

Though the film leaves Milton's marital status and estrangement from his adult son vague, Kingsley infuses his character with nuances and eccentricities that make him identifiable yet easily forgettable—much like the elderly man you might cross paths with at a grocery store and forget.

Milton regularly speaks at the city council meetings. He tirelessly advocates for a new town slogan and a crosswalk at a specific intersection. His repetitive behavior reveals an early onset of Alzheimer's, made evident by forgetful actions. For example, he often misplaces canned food in the bathroom cabinet.

The narrative melds themes of regret, time, and memory. However, it pivots when an uncommunicative but expressive alien—referred to as Jules—lands in Milton's yard. The narrative's focus shifts to the suspense surrounding the alien's inevitable discovery. It’s evolving relationships with the characters, including Milton.

Besides Kingsley, the film features Harriet Sansom Harris and Jane Curtin, who keep it grounded. Harris plays Sandy. She is a city council regular with worries about Milton, whose own daughter, married to a woman, has estranged her. Curtin plays Joyce, another council regular. Initially, she's enigmatic but later reveals her longing for her life in Pittsburgh. Her insistence on naming the alien Gary, despite others calling it Jules, adds an element of comedy.

Written by Gavin Steckler and directed by Marc Turteltaub, "Jules" is a charming film that deftly handles its characters and themes. However, it battles with a certain indie-movie quirkiness. This is especially notable in Volker Bertelmann's whimsical score that may remind one of network TV music.

While the film ventures into a shocking act of violence, the impact on the characters seems surprisingly superficial, raising questions about the movie's commitment to psychological realism. Jade Quon's silent performance as Jules stands out, challenging traditional acting boundaries by engaging the audience without dialogues or standard interactions.

Though the movie begins with a realistic portrayal of an older individual's life marked by solitude and dementia, it leaves the audience pondering whether a deeper film on just that subject might be more impactful. Nonetheless, "Jules" feels like an almost-perfect fit—a sneaker that might have benefited from being more tightly laced.