Fine performances save Smart People

"Smart People"
Starring: Dennis Quaid, Sarah Jessica Parker, Ellen Page, Thomas Haden Church, Ashton Holmes
3 stars out of 4

Dennis Quaid may be one of the most un-appreciated actors of today, he's a likeable actor with solid acting chops and plenty of charisma. Quaid is usually reliable as the father figure in many of his films, he portrays that same role in "Smart People."

Quaid plays Lawrence Weatherhold, a burnt out English professor whom many of his students don't really like. Weatherhold is an intelligent man, but may be to self absorbed, much like the character of Bernard in "The Squid and the Whale." Weatherhold is also widower who still keeps the clothes of his former wife stored away in the house. His kids are played by 2007 Oscar nominee Ellen Page, who is way to busy studying for the SAT's to care about his recent accident, and Ashton Holmes, who is a college student, and who also played in "A History of Violence."

Recently, Weatherhold had an accident breaking into a parking lot. He suffered a concussion and is advised by his docter, Miranda, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, not to drive for six months. They have an instant attraction, as Miranda was his former student in her freshman year of college. Weatherhold hopes to form a relationship with Miranda, but she doesnt seem like right girl for him, maybe a casting mistake in my eyes.

The adopted-brother of Lawrence soon shows up looking for some quick cash, but he ends up being the chauffer for Lawrence. The adopted brother Chuck, is played by the wonderful Thomas Haden Church, in a much more toned down version of his "Sideways" character. Chuck is a moocher who smokes pot and drinks, he is unemployed, but adds some much needed humor to the Weatherhold home.

Pretty soon, all the dysfunctional characters are living under one roof, save for Miranda, and most of the characters learn something about themselves before the film ends. It sounds like the formula indie script, and it basically is. What made me enjoy this pleasant film were the peformances and the genuine slice of life portrayal that the film portrayed. I admit the script could have been touched up, but the performances are the main reason to see the film.

Ellen Page is the quick witted and uber intelligent Vanessa, a 17 year old who looks up to her father in an admireable way. She does fine work here, this film was actually filmed before "Juno, " but certainly will remind viewers of why she is such a promising young actress. Thomas Haden Church is solid as the supporting comedic gem, and its nice to see Sarah Jessica Parker stray from the romantic-comedy genre, and do something with a little weight to it.

"Smart People" is no masterpiece, but an indie that has clever dialogue, if only the script had room to breathe and manuever, the film could have been better. Still, I recommend the film.