Fred Won't Move Out

This Well Meaning Indie Has Good Intentions But An Inconsistent Execution
Can a small personal film ever be too small? I suppose the answer may vary for everyone. But in the case of Richard Ledes' "Fred Won't Move Out," my answer is in the affirmative. I thought the premise of the film was solid and I was happy to see Elliott Gould back in a leading role. Ultimately, though, the experience didn't make much of an impact for me. It's actually rather surprising, because the movie examines that difficult transitional period when grown kids must assume the caregiver role for their parents. This is a topic that really resonates with me, something that I have lived through. But in an understated and extremely personal exploration, Ledes scores with some finely realized moments without ever really developing a compelling bigger picture. The movie has a quasi-improvisational feel, more of a pet project than a feature film. I still liked "Fred Won't Move Out" well enough, I just wanted a stronger emotional connection.

The film introduces us to Fred (Gould)...

Good slice of life movie, but not for those who have aging issues
This obviously low budget movie has lots of good, funny and touching moments, all happening in a slice of the life of an aging couple confronted with the need to leave their long-term home. Much of the dialogue appears to be improvisation, well handled by Eliott Gould and the other old pros who make up the cast -- all excellent in their roles. Based, sort of, on the true story of the couple who actually owned the home the movie is filmed in -- and the home is, itself, a character in the movie, a period piece frozen in time.



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