Millennium Entertainment
There’s a hidden gem from 2014 that many may have missed. “Are You Here,” a film directed and written by Matthew Weiner, the creative mind behind “The Sopranos” and “Mad Men,” boasts an impressive cast list. It features the likes of Owen Wilson, Zach Galifianakis, Amy Poehler, Edward Hermann, Jenna Fischer from “The Office,” Peter Bogdanovich, and Melissa Rauch from “The Big Bang Theory.” Despite its star-studded cast, the movie didn’t make much of a splash when it was first released. However, it’s recently been garnering attention on Amazon Prime Video. But what went wrong initially, and what’s the film about?
The film introduces us to Steve Dallas (Wilson), a local weatherman known more for his womanizing ways than his professional commitment. His life takes an unexpected turn when his childhood friend Ben Baker (Galifianakis) reveals that his father has passed away, and he needs Steve’s help to attend the funeral. The story unfolds as they find themselves embroiled in a series of events that result from Ben inheriting his father’s fortune and a farm.
If you’re confused by the plot, you’re not alone. Critics also expressed their perplexity when the film was first released.
How was “Are You Here” received by critics upon its release in 2013?
Millennium Entertainment
When “Are You Here” debuted in theaters in 2014, critics were not kind. The film holds an unfortunate 8% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting the general consensus that the movie, despite its talented cast and crew, fell flat. Critics from Entertainment Weekly, The Hollywood Reporter, The New York Post, and USA Today were particularly harsh. However, there were a few who found some redeeming qualities in the film, such as David Edelstein from New York Magazine and Ben Kenigsberg at The New York Times.
What have the film’s stars Owen Wilson and Zach Galifianakis done since “Are You Here”?
Millennium Entertainment
Owen Wilson bounced back splendidly after the disappointment of “Are You Here,” with roles in acclaimed films like “The Grand Budapest Hotel” and “Inherent Vice.” He continued his collaboration with director Wes Anderson and recently ventured into the Marvel Cinematic Universe with “Loki.”
As for Zach Galifianakis, he followed up “Are You Here” with a role in the Academy Award-winning film “Birdman.” He also lent his voice to “The Lego Batman Movie” and starred in “Between Two Ferns: The Movie,” among others. Currently, “Are You Here” is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
Credit: www.slashfilm.com
