A version of this review appeared in March.
Arlen Faber (Jeff Daniels) was touched by God. He wrote about it in an inspirational best seller that touched readers around the world. That was 20 years ago. Since then, he has been a recluse in a Philadelphia townhouse, hiding from the world - and himself. The world knocks on Arlen's door but he does not answer.
The Answer Man, a diverting dramedy of human and spiritual connection, is set in the rosy light and full bud of a spring when the thorny Arlen gets coaxed outside and into bloom.
Written and directed by John Hindman (and retitled from The Dream of the Romans), the rookie feature costars the wistful Lauren Graham as a chiropractor who readjusts Arlen and the wiry Lou Taylor Pucci as a bookseller who consults Arlen for advice. Obviously indebted to James L. Brooks' As Good as It Gets, the film follows three broken spirits who help mend one another.
