Extremely Loud And Incredibly Close (2011)

Based on the wondrous and emotinal novel by Jonathan Safran Foer, this film, directed by Stephen Daldry, tells the story of Oskar Schnell, a young autistic boy dealing with the death of his father, who died in the 9/11 attacks in New York City.   The book delves deep into the mind of Oskar and gives the book its unique perspective.  Because of this there's a sense that something is missing in the movie, but I applaud Eric Roth for capturing an essence of the novel's spirit, even if it meant too much voice-over.   Tom Hanks is perfectly cast as the father and Sandara Bullock plays Oskar's mother with just enough layers to make it work.  But it's Max Von Sydow who steals the show as the Renter, a man who doesn't talk but communicates by writing and yes/no palm tattoos.  Grade: B+