And So It Goes

And So It Goes is a 2014 American romantic comedy-drama film that beautifully blends humor, emotion, and romance into an intriguing storyline. Directed by renowned industry heavyweight Rob Reiner, the film stars multiple Academy Award-winners Michael Douglas and Diane Keaton, along with talented young actress Sterling Jerins.

The film centers around the life of Oren Little (played by Michael Douglas), a self-centered realtor who's lost all faith in the world and himself after the demise of his wife and the disconnect with his son. Michael Douglas' performance is nothing short of spectacular, as he masterfully portrays the transformation of a dismissive, irritable old man into a caring, loving human being. He perfectly captures the essence of the character, showcasing intricate emotion ratios with great finesse. Douglas' character, Oren, is a man who had buried his emotions and compassion under layers of disappointment and regret, making his journey back compassion all the more captivating.

Contrasting Oren's tough exterior and sharp tongue is neighboring tenant Leah (played by Diane Keaton). Leah is a lounge singer whose performances are often interrupted by her emotional meltdowns over the recent loss of her husband. Diane Keaton brings her renowned charm and grace to Leah's character. Her performance perfectly encapsulates the bittersweet symphony of happiness and sorrow. Her journey of rediscovery, from her self-imposed shell of past memories to a vibrant life in the present, is truly inspiring.

Naturally, their paths collide, throwing the two into a series of events that make them question their perspectives of life, love, and happiness. The relationship between Oren and Leah is awkward, amusing, and heartwarming. Their interactions gradually reveal layers of their personalities and their unique pasts, making their relationship all the more endearing.

The story takes a surprising detour when Oren's estranged son shows up unexpectedly asking him to take care of his nine-year-old daughter Sarah (played by Sterling Jerins) while he serves time in jail. Oren, suddenly faced with the overwhelming responsibility of caring for a granddaughter he didn't even know existed, reluctantly agrees. Sarah's character, portrayed impressively by Sterling Jerins, adds an innocent touch to the narrative, helping Oren rediscover a different side of himself.

The arcs of these individual characters interloop effectively, bringing forth unexpected yet realistic situations. Director Rob Reiner skillfully narrates these interconnected stories with lively characters and situations extracted from everyday life, making this film an engaging emotional journey for the viewers. The film also captures the sincerity of human emotions by demonstrating how shared experiences, even painful ones, can build the bridge between hearts, regardless of age or circumstance.

At the core of And so It Goes lays the message 'It is never too late to change.' It beautifully portrays how chance encounters and unpredictable events can profoundly influence one's jaded perspective of life, encouraging people to break free of their protective shells and embrace change, no matter how scary it might seem. By portraying the evolution of their leading characters, the filmmakers imbue a sense of hope and encourage audiences to believe that everyone deserves a second chance at happiness, love, and life itself.

In addition, the film's settings also play a pivotal role in adding multiple layers to the narrative. The quaint, picturesque landscape of Connecticut where the film is based provides a soothing backdrop that complements the tender storyline effectively.

Overall, And So It Goes is an emotionally warm, deeply moving film with a light-hearted tone that has the potential to both entertain and touch hearts, further enhanced by its excellent casting and incredibly charming performances. Though it primarily caters to a mature audience, its universal themes of love, forgiveness, understanding, and second chances make it a movie that viewers of all ages can appreciate. Events unfold gently, with equal parts humor and poignancy, resulting in a film that is a must-watch for fans of emotional drama and romantic comedies alike.