Catch and Release [Blu-ray]

This film is fundamentally about how to cope with painful truths; escape with distractions, bottle it up for years, only show the good side of ourselves, blame others for our own failings or what's out of our control, or face it and transmute it into something that's helpful and kind. Every character grapples with this, even the child, and traverses their own story arc without staying stuck in one dimension. They each make mistakes and grow from them. It's so relatable that, by the end, it feels like you're just another friend in the room with these very real-seeming people.I'm a fan of every actor and they each create a story that engaged my heart from the beginning. I felt along with each of them, so they did a wonderful job. Garner managed to express the bitter side of grief in a way that humanized her character without vilifying her. There were plenty of moments when her character could have been played a touch too low or too grasping, but Garner's vulnerability kept the character grounded and lovable. Juliette Lewis was just perfect. Olyphant's character seems to be written as a cartoon cutout at first, but he quickly displays an electric presence that gives the guy interest, self-awareness, and depth. Olyphant consistently steals the show; you just want to see what he's going to do next. The love scenes have a focus on the story being told rather than just exposing the actors' bodies. More is said without words, which makes the story more stimulating.***SPOILERS*** The scene in the kitchen when Gray runs to hide just when Fritz is about to express his feelings is mostly well executed, but I wish the frame had pulled back enough to show the gesture Olyphant made with his hand when Garner pulled back. He reached for her in a silent "don't go" that was only partially visible. That movement contributed more to the unspoken conversation, so it really shouldn't have been cropped. The storage room scene where Olyphant played Fritz's self-defense with pained humor felt like a real break-up, and the shadow of disillusioned resolve that crossed his eyes looked like he was living it rather than acting it. Olyphant is consistently magnetic and fun to watch. ***/SPOILERS***

This is one of my most favorite all-time movies. Came quick, and in perfect shape.

A very powerful story about understanding, sympathy, and getting to know ones-self. Jennifer Garner's movements portray a woman who slowly starts living again, not as a woman defined by perfection, but by understanding where she can be mature and where she can have fun and learn to be herself. Timothy Olymphant starts as the loyal "bro" of his recently deceased friend and in the end reveals himself to be a sensitive, caring man who has to give the best kiss in the world!It's not going to be a movie with tons of comedy; it starts out at a funeral! It's meant for those who understand the strength needed to pick yourself back up after life knocks you down, more than once. The main character isn't the deceased fiance; you're not meant to pity him or think bad of Jennifer Garner's character for what she does, you're meant to grow as she does, finding value in the life she now has.If I could give this movie more than 5 stars, I would in a heartbeat. The amount of emotionally mature and emotionally difficult themes that this film bravely tackles is wonderful.

very different but good movie

A fiancé has died… and soon the secrets come trickling out bit by bit. There’s lots of “forgive and move on” in this movie. Jennifer Garner —and all of the crew really — were super in their roles!

Jennifer Garner and Timothy Olyphant...how can you go wrong?! Sweet, real, awesome moving, film. Thank you Susanna Grant!These two both are scene stealers, and their ability to act and express so much with such subtle movements, facial expressions, as well as the way they speak and how the speak their lines....completely engaging, witty, heartfelt, as well as with depth, and sadness. Two truly gifted artistic talents.Really nice to see Timothy Olyphant pick up the camera again - must be an actual passion of is - his character in Broken Hearts Club is also a photographer...and equally compelling and engaging.Bravo, direction, writing, and the whole cast, yes Julliet Lewis, is also always pretty amazing as well.Thank you Susanna Grant for bring us a touching, moving, heartfelt, and tastefully romantic story, and never going for an easy or cheap way with the development and journey of the main characters.Please create more films like this, and please use Jennifer Garner and Timothy Olyphant again :)I didn't know about this movie until just randomly searching for Jennifer Garner (big Alias fan!) and when I saw she was the lead with Timothy Olyphant (he is amazing in everything he does....from Justified, to his role in Damages, Broken Hearts Club, and even as the villain in one of the Die Hard films), I figured it was worth renting and I was more than happy.....I'd even watch a sequel :)

I'm a widow which is why I watched but this was tilted on all good hope and intent. In real life, um, not so much the reality.I liked the underpinning of hope because when you lose someone - hope is what got you through their passing and into the days after - but in general life moves a bit more "clunckily" along.So - what for hope.