A best-selling author of a book entitled 'Me and God', Alan Farber (Jeff Daniels), is on the lam: 20 years after becoming world famous for the book, he is a recluse, trying to hide from all who have tough questions about God. They're hoping for answers, thinking that Farber had a direct line to heaven. Trouble is, Farber wrote a one-of book, and no longer feels any spiritual bond with the deity. And he's awkward emotionally as well.
Enter Elizabeth (Lauren Graham), a chiropractor whom Faber consults when hurts his back. He's attracted to her, and she seems interested, especially when she finds out who he is. She's not in the especially in the market for spiritual advice, but she's interested in companionship, including having a a father figure for her son Alex (Max Antisell). Also in the mix is an alcoholic and broke bookstore owner Kris Lucas (Lou Taylor Pucci). Lucas is in clear need of help, and he hopes Farber is just the man for the job.
I'm of two minds about the film. It's a funny premise to have a cultural religious icon who is sick (and profane) about his fame, and is cynical about the way he ever got there. He's become a misanthrope, and genuinely dislikes people. However, he is also capable of some very insightful, and even beautiful, statements about God and man. The two personality types don't mix well.
In a stand out performance, Graham is appealing as a newly-minted chiropractor who helps Farber with his bad back. Graham's face is alive with little smiles, narrowed eyes, aw-shucks moments. She can get more out a scene with just her facial expressions than most actors can do with their whole bodies. It's a great pleasure to watch.
Rated R for language
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