While living in the dive of an apartment, the family starts to make a new life for themselves in America. But things are not like they see on T.V.. Money is tight, and jobs are scarce, but somehow the family made it all work out.
On Halloween, the girls befriend a man known to the other apartment dwellers as "the man who screams." Thi man is Mateo (Djimon Hounsou), who, like the girls, is an immigrant. In a short ammount of time, the girls get to know Mateo very well and he is even invited over for dinner.
Johnny isn't pleased, though. Not pleased at all. It seams Mateo has become a little too friendly with his wife and kids. So upset is he that he confronts Mateo; he asks him straight out if he is in love with his wife. Mateo's answer not only stuns Johnny, but helps the family to realize that no matter how rough an appearance may be, an angel may be hidding inside.
Djimon Hounsou steals the show with his portrayal of the immigrant Mateo, even though he doesn't have much screen time. Hounsou has terrific chemistry with everyone, especially the two young children, actual sisters Sarah and Emma Bolger.
The confrontation scene between Hounsou and Paddy Considine was well acted by all. The is a great deal of dramtic tension in the scene culminating when Mateo gives his shocking news to Johnny.
This scene is one of the best dramatic confrontation scenes I've ever seen. It is sad although it isn't over-the-top, and brings the right touch to the rest of the picture.
Plot: 
Jim Sheridan wrote an amazing screenplay. The film isn't too sappy and it isn't too sad. It tells it's story without dragging and carrying on. The most important characters in the film don't bog down the picture, instead adding the right touches here and there.
Visual Effects: 
The film was shot well; all of the shots and camara angles a basic and static, although this dosn't take away from the film... this film isn't about special effects.
Sound:
There is a great song in the picture, "Time Enough for Tears," which is quite moving. The song was nominated for a Golden Globe, and could have easily won... it really is a great song.
The big surprise was hereing the song "Do You Belive in Magic" near the beginning of the picture (as the family is driving in the tunnel). This song is a welcome addition to the film and a great choice. You wouldn't expect a song like this in a picture such as this one, but welcome no-the-less.
Character Development:
Devistated at the loss of his son, Johnny doesn't know how to go on, but he learns how to from Mateo. In fact, Mateo helps everyone go on in some way or another.
Atmosphere:
Realism:
Who can really say what it must be like for an immigrant family to move into a strange area? Have people call you names because of what race you are? And yes, you don't always get to live in the poshest of homes all the time. Sometimes a dive is all that can be afforded.
Warren's Rating:
9.14/10Is the movie worth your time to watch?
02-01-04
