The titular character is played by Jason Segel, relishing an opportunity to go heavy. He’s besties with a married couple (Casey Affleck and Dakota Johnson). When she’s diagnosed with terminal cancer, he moves in with them and their 2 young daughters to help them cope. Yes, this is as grim as you might imagine. Making it somewhat more interesting (and sometimes confusing and sometimes frustrating) is that the timeline continually jumps around to reveal more about their relationships and extend the misery. The actors all do a fine job, but the continually intense interactions take a toll. Making it harder to handle is the 2 hour running time. Ironically, it’s based on a magazine article, but the length feels more like a novel. As an examination of death and friendship, the film is earnest, but the rambling narrative and extended length dilutes the film’s emotional impact.
One weird aspect: Even though the movie takes place in Alabama and New Orleans, only one person (the always wonderful Cherry Jones in a small part) has any trace of a Southern accent.
(3 / 5)