Aardvark

I'm sorry to say, this movie didn't work for me at any level. The cast is strong and the ending is decent, but those are all the positives I can come up with.

The dialogue is terribly stilted and the storyline consistently doesn't seem to know where it wants to go. I would say save yourself the awkward and painful trek here. In a postscript, Jenny Slate's character may be the worst therapist in the history of movies (maybe she missed the classes on therapist/patient boundaries).

Jenny Slate is drop-dead gorgeous; and that's pretty much the only reason I watched this movie through to the end.

However, I don't get one thing: What does this movie have to do with an aardvark? The only time an aardvark is even related to in the flick is when the two brothers were apparently looking at one at the zoo when they were both young... and I still don't get it.

Interesting concept for a story, but it's execution could have been stronger. I don't think it's the fault of the actors, probably the and dialogue and direction is to blame.

Josh (Zach Quinto) is seeing a therapist, and says and does in-appropriate things right from the start. A more serious role for him, after Star Trek. We keep seeing images of the aardvark, although at this point, we're not sure why. and Josh sees his brother's face here and there. and he rarely answers the question asked by Dr. Milburton (Jenny Slate). Jon Hamm from MadMen is in here as Josh's brother, and of course, his therapist is sleeping with his brother. SO inappropriate. kind of a mind stretcher. the whole time, we're not sure what's real and what is not. and more images of aardvarks. clearly Josh is delusional, and some questions do get answered. kinda freaky. interesting study in therapy. it's very okay. Writer/director Brian Shoaf seems to make relationship films.

I really enjoyed this film and you will too, if you like movies that are not spoon fed to you. For the most part, it follows a pretty simple linear narrative, with occasional 'imaginary' sequences. Unless you are drunk while watching, these will make total sense based on the overall narrative structure.

The acting and directing is very good, especially if you are fan of Jon Hamm and Zachary Quinto.

Overall, it is a refreshing and interesting examination of how mental illness effects a person and those around them. While some people might find the film's themes of loneliness and despair too depressing, this film always keeps things light and moving.