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Michael Douglas has done his fair share of sleazy roles, but his portrayal as aging playboy Ben Kalmen with a penchant for young girls is one of his career's best performances. At the beginning of the movie, Ben is at the top of his game, and thinks his annual physical is just one more thing to cross off his list of things to do - then he receives some startling news about his health that takes viewers six years into the future. Ben is now divorced (from a character played by Susan Sarandon), is financially diminished, yet seems to have retained the affections and loyalty of both his married daughter (played by Jenna Fischer) and his ex-wife. He is also involved in a relationship with a wealthy woman (played by Mary Louise Parker) who has a 19-year-old daughter. When Ben is asked to accompany Parker's daughter to his alma mater (for an interview), things spiral out of control, and Ben finds that his prospects have turned very bleak. It is a compelling character study of a self-destructive character who is battling sex addiction, but refuses to do anything about it. His daughter enables his behavior by lending a sympathetic ear and even giving him financial aid when he is broke and desperate, though even she balks at helping him much later, realizing that he is truly past redemption. Sarandon plays the friendly and sympathetic ex-wife who helps him out, having got her life on track after their divorce. There's Danny Devito who plays the role of a supportive old friend. The acting is well-done on all fronts and that helps elevate this movie above average. Those who appreciate compelling character studies might get something out of this, as I did.Read full review
Ben Kalmen (Michael Douglas) is a 60 year old car dealership owner who is also a womanizer. His current girlfriend Jordan (Mary Louise Parker) asks him to take her daughter Susan (Jenna Fischer) to his former college to put in a good word for her and they end up having a one night stand. From there things begin to get very complicated for him and his relationships turn sour. Michael Douglas plays this role in his usual great way. The movie is well written and well acted and the plot is very interesting. This movie is one of his best. The movie also stars: Jesse Eisenberg as Daniel, Olivia Thirlby as Maureen, Imogen Poots as Allyson, Susan Sarandon as Nancy, Danny DeVito as Jimmy and Richard Schiff as Steve Heller. I would recommend this movie to anyone who enjoys watching Michael Douglas and for anyone who enjoys a good comedy/drama.Read full review
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