Movie Review: Stranger Than Fiction
Stars (Out of 10): 9
One Word Summary: Must-see

       "Stranger Than Fiction" is the story of Harold Crick, a lonely IRS agent, and Karen Eiffel, the author who just so happens to be writing the prophetic story of his life. When Harold starts hearing a voice narrating his life, he's spooked, but when the voice promises his imminent death he quickly becomes worried. After turning to a literary professor for help, Harold decides that he must change the course of his life and find the author before she kills him.

       'Stranger Than Fiction” is absolutely the best movie of the year. It's funny, it's sweet, and it's completely original. Zach Helms' screenplay rings of Charlie Kauffman—except 'Fiction” is easier to like than 'Eternal Sunshine” or 'Adaptation”—and director Marc Forster presents a visually appealing film that is as brainy as it is intimate.

       Will Ferrell headlines a great cast that includes Maggie Gyllenhaal, Queen Latifah, Emma Thompson, and Dustin Hoffman. 'Fiction” is to Ferrell what 'The Truman Show” was to Jim Carrey—it's the vehicle that's proven that he can be a serious actor. The role is perfect for Ferrell. It's funny enough that he doesn't seem completely out of place, yet he's such a lovable guy that audience is rooting for him the whole time.

The Bottom Line is that 'Stranger Than Fiction” is an absolute must-see. Every year there's one or two movies that are as smart as they are endearing. This is one of them. It's funny, it's thrilling, it's dramatic, and it's playing in a theatre near you. Go see it.