A Little Help

A Little Help is a heartfelt drama-comedy film that was released in 2010. The film takes place in Long Island, New York, during the early 2000s. The movie tells the story of a woman named Laura Pehlke, played by Jenna Fischer, who lives with her son, Dennis, and her husband, Bob. Laura is a dental hygienist who is content with her simple life, but that all changes after her husband suddenly dies.

The movie opens with Laura waking up to an ordinary morning, getting her son ready for school, and going to work. But during the day, Laura receives a phone call that will alter her life forever. Her husband, Bob, had a heart attack and passed away while at work. After the shock wears off, Laura is left to pick up the pieces of her life on her own. She is left with a young son, a pile of debt, and a slew of insecurities.

The story moves forward with Laura trying to navigate her new life as a widow while dealing with her son's emotional turmoil. Dennis, played by Daniel Yelsky, is an awkward preteen who is struggling to find his place in the world. He is bullied at school and doesn't have many friends, making his mother's situation even more challenging. Throughout the film, Laura tries to be a supportive mother to Dennis while also dealing with her own issues.

As Laura navigates her new life, she finds herself in various comical and emotional situations. For example, she tries to sell her husband's motorcycle to pay off the medical bills but ends up meeting a witty, quirky buyer named Paul, played by Jay Klaitz. Paul is an aspiring musician who becomes Laura's friend and confidante throughout the film, ultimately helping her discover things about herself that she never knew.

The movie also explores Laura's relationship with her family, particularly her overbearing mother, who is played by veteran actress, Lesley Ann Warren. Laura's mother is a perfectionist who has always been critical of her daughter's life choices, including her decision to marry Bob. Throughout the film, Laura clashes with her mother over how to handle her husband's death and how to move forward with her life.

The film's themes of loss, love, and family are explored through its relatable characters and witty humor. Jenna Fischer delivers a standout performance as Laura, portraying a woman who is trying to be strong for her son while dealing with her own grief. Daniel Yelsky, too, shines as Dennis, delivering a sincere and relatable portrayal of a preteen who is struggling to find his identity.

The movie also has a great soundtrack, filled with popular songs from the early 2000s, which helps to set the mood throughout the film. Additionally, the film's setting in Long Island adds charm to the story, as it showcases the struggles and triumphs of living in a small town.

In conclusion, A Little Help is a heartwarming film that tackles heavy topics with humor and grace. The film's exceptional performances and relatable characters make it a must-see for anyone who has ever experienced loss or struggled to find their place in the world.