Typically, alien films choose to present either horror or compassion. Marc Turtletaub’s new release, Jules, portrays the latter. At a glance, the film will seem familiar with E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial; however, the protagonists of Jules are senior citizens. Milton (Ben Kingsley) struggles with his fading memory and relationship with his adult daughter (Zoe Winters). Milton’s words about an extraterrestrial escalate his daughter’s insistence on him seeing a psychiatrist. When others also seem not to believe him, he invites Jules to his house. Milton and Jules quickly form a connection. At its core, Jules resonates more with older audiences but offers warmth to every viewer. Let’s read the critics’ opinions about Jules.
Jules Reviews Roundup – The Reviews Are Mixed
Claire Shaffer (New York Times) – It often feels as though Turtletaub would rather you be curled up in your seat with a mug of cocoa than on the edge of it. But the sweetness isn’t entirely unwelcome – not every alien movie can be “Alien.”
Michael O’Sullivan (Washington Post) – It’s less a sci-fi parable…than a fairy tale reminding us that the tribulations of getting old are more natural than sad, and best done in the company of loved ones.
David Ehrlich (IndieWire) – A movie that’s often too content with its weirdness to work on any other grounds. “Jules” isn’t funny enough or heartbreaking enough or anything enough to meaningfully expand on its basic idea.
Frank Scheck (Hollywood Reporter) – Featuring sterling performances from an uncharacteristically underplaying Ben Kingsley alongside Harriet Sansom Harris and Jane Curtin, Jules emerges as a low-key delight.
Owen Gleiberman (Variety) – Simply put, there isn’t enough going on in “Jules.” It’s a sweet but sodden trifle that’s overly pleased with itself.
Trace Sauveur (Austin Chronicle) – Ostensibly, this is a film about rediscovering one’s humanity by way of otherworldly emotional connection, but the relationship between the central trio and Jules himself never feels particularly resonant.
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