The Soloist

Here's a film that I really enjoyed - The Soloist.

Be warned, though, it isn't for everyone. Mainly because it refuses to adhere to the Hollywood standard of offering a happy ending - or even a complete narrative. There is no real conclusion, no real closure for the characters. There is no miracle cure for the mental illness of one of the two key characters, and the problems facing the homeless aren't answered either. In fact, the film is about a cocksure journalist realising that he cannot change the world. And he also cannot duck in and out of the lives of other people. Especially if they are vulnerable.

So it is a film that could shake the world views of some people. Especially those who believe that life has an overall narrative, and that human beings are perfectible. But for those of us who know that the world is a confusing place with no clear answers, no clear path and no meaningful definition of perfect mental health or perfect living, the film is a nice confirmation of a disparate, broad and thoroughly postmodern world.