TOM McCARTHY’S latest character study is a delight, elegantly navigating the emotional ebb and flow of small town protagonists with earthy humour.
Mike Flaherty (Paul Giamatti) is struggling to survive in the harsh economic climate.
He thinks his prayers have been answered when he agrees to act as legal guardian to elderly client Leo (Burt Young), who has early Alzheimer’s – a role which brings in a monthly stipend of $1,500. Matters become complicated when Leo’s grandson (Alex Shaffer) turns up unannounced, having run away from his negligent mother.
Mike’s wife Jackie (Amy Ryan) is reluctant to allow the wastrel to stay, locking Kyle in a room in the basement.
However, in time, the Flahertys become a surrogate family for the troubled lad.
Win Win is a heartbreaking account of a family falling apart and the emotionally wounded teenager who unexpectedly provides the catalyst for change.
