This well crafted film is given resonance and purpose with layers and layers of detail that make the bittersweet climax all the more heartwarming.
Is Anybody There? (2009)
Tomatometer
How does the Tomatometer work ![]()
Reviews Counted:114
Fresh:75
Rotten:39
Average Rating:6.3/10
Consensus: Though Michael Caine gives an excellent performance, Is Anybody There? features a cliche-filled story that ultimately falters.
Australian Theatrical Release:
Jun 4, 2009 Wide
US Box Office: $1,988,165
Synopsis: Growing up and growing old never played so poignantly as it does in John Crowley’s IS ANYBODY THERE? The film grapples with the sad truths of getting older and losing loved ones, all the while... Growing up and growing old never played so poignantly as it does in John Crowley’s IS ANYBODY THERE? The film grapples with the sad truths of getting older and losing loved ones, all the while maintaining a sardonic wit and sincere warmth. Coming of age in a family-run rest home, the reclusive, death-obsessed Edward (Bill Milner, SON OF RAMBOW) wiles away his days tormenting his parents’ elderly residents and secretly tape-recording them in search of answers about the afterlife. Edward finds a kindred spirit in Clarence (Michael Caine), the curmudgeonly, retired magician who begrudgingly takes up residence at the guest home. The two strike up an unlikely friendship that helps Clarence come to terms with losing his wife, and Edward finds a way out of his shell. Milner holds his own alongside veteran Caine with a biting yet charming performance. Anne-Marie Duff (NOTES ON A SCANDAL) and David Morrissey (BASIC INSTINCT 2) offer up moving support as Edward’s working-class parents, who struggle to hold onto their marriage while making ends meet. The colorful cast of senior citizens, which includes seasoned actors Rosemary Harris (Aunt May from the SPIDERMAN films) and Karl Johnson (HOT FUZZ, ROME), provides some of the film's most melancholy and comic moments. Along with stellar performances from the impressive ensemble, IS ANYBODY THERE? is well-scripted and beautifully shot. Though it deals with some of life’s toughest moments, this is a film that is sure to appeal to audiences of all ages. [More]
Starring: Michael Caine, Bill Milner, Anne-Marie Duff, David Morrissey
Starring: Michael Caine, Bill Milner, Anne-Marie Duff, David Morrissey, Rosemary Harris, Karl Johnson, Leslie Phillips, Elizabeth Spriggs
Director: John Crowley
Director: John Crowley
Screenwriter: Peter Harness
Producer: David Heyman, Marc Turtletaub, Peter Saraf
Composer: Joby Talbot
Studio: Big Beach Films
Reviews for Is Anybody There?
Even when dealing with the supernatural, Caine is never less than a realist. Yet you can still see the boy in him. And in Milner, you can certainly see the man Edward will become.
This is a film that presses many emotional buttons. In many ways it is a really sad film and certainly one that needs a wad of tissues.
Caine and Milner go together like peas in a pod. Or, better yet, like bangers and mash. They're an odd couple, but they face life as one and it's a rewarding journey.
With two direct and developed lead performances from Michael Caine and young Bill Milner, it seems unfair to watch their efforts wasted on an uneven, unsatisfying picture like the tear-jerker Is Anybody There?
Director John Crowley overestimates the comedic potential of daily life for the elderly and infirmed. Thankfully, the casual, unforced chemistry between Caine and Milner is strong enough to suppress Is Anybody There?’s cornie
Michael Caine is always good company, but he’s been saddled with the role of a slightly pitiful man whose life has been wasted... despite generally good performances the narrative arc is pretty obvious from the start.
It's a film that serves as a poignant reminder of how quickly time passes.
It wants so badly to be meaningful, relevant and compassionate, but struggles even to keep our attention, never mind our hearts or minds. Not even Michael Caine's slowly sinking geriatric Clarence or affecting young Bill Milner can elevate the material.
Is Anybody There?, about an aging magician's friendship with a morose boy, requires us to repress any thoughts about stale material and keep Caine's heartfelt performance front and center.
Worth seeing for Caine, who makes acting seem effortless, pleasurable and even noble.
Caine and Milner play off each other nicely, but there's nothing about the story or characters that feels fresh or unexpected.
This sweet-natured movie can nonetheless provide laughs and sharp insights, as well as a lump in the throat.
It's also charming, despite the dark subject matter. You could say the same about Caine's performance.
A quirky coming-of-age drama that will draw you in with its spiritual undertow and delight.
Latest News for Is Anybody There?
April 16, 2009:
Critics Consensus: 17 Again Is Sweet And Poignant
This week at the movies, we've got a high school do-over (17 Again, starring Zac Efron and Leslie Mann), some journalistic thrills (State of Play, starring Russell Crowe and... More...
April 01, 2009:
Michael Caine Talks Batman 3 ![]()
Michael Caine is out promoting his latest feature, "Is Anybody There," but he's perfectly willing to share his thoughts on the next "Batman" sequel -- fortunately for Collider,... More...
March 22, 2009:
Click for trailer and preview ![]()
More...
More Movies
| Tomatometer Percentage | Movie | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 89% 89% | Up in the Air | 14/1 |
| | The Tooth Fairy | 14/1 |
| | Bran Nue Dae | 14/1 |
What’s Hot On RT
Other News
Sponsored Links
Around The Network
- Is Anybody There? at Rotten Tomatoes
Fresh Links
Featured

Last week, Moviefone offered us their worst films of the 2000s. Now see their 40 best!
Competitions

We're giving away copies of Judd Apatow's latest.



Top Critic

