Wilson

Wilson is a 2017 dramedy starring Woody Harrelson as the titular character, a middle-aged misanthrope who reconnects with his estranged ex-wife and discovers he has a teenage daughter he never knew about. The film is based on the graphic novel of the same name by Daniel Clowes, who also wrote the screenplay.

At the beginning of the film, we meet Wilson as a lonely and socially awkward man who is not above striking up conversations with complete strangers in public places. He lives alone in an apartment in Minnesota and works as a dog sitter. One day, he receives a phone call from his ex-wife Pippi (Laura Dern), whom he hasn't spoken to in 17 years. She tells him that their cat, who they got together when they were married, has died. This prompts Wilson to reach out to Pippi and try to reconnect with her.

When Wilson goes to visit Pippi, he discovers that she is now a recovering drug addict who is clean and sober. She also drops a bombshell on him: she had a baby after they split up and gave it up for adoption. Wilson becomes obsessed with finding their daughter and sets out on a mission to track her down. He eventually discovers that their daughter, Claire (played by Isabella Amara), is a teenager living with a couple in a nearby town.

Wilson convinces Pippi to come with him to meet Claire, and they all have an awkward reunion at a local diner. Claire is understandably confused and resentful towards Wilson and Pippi for abandoning her as a baby, but Wilson is determined to make up for lost time and tries to forge a relationship with Claire. He takes her to the mall and tries to bond with her over their shared love of old cartoons, but things don't go as smoothly as he hopes.

Throughout the film, Wilson's abrasive personality and blunt honesty get him into trouble with almost everyone he encounters. He gets into a physical altercation with a man who steals his dog, insults a group of strangers at a restaurant, and even gets arrested for attempting to help a woman who he thought was being kidnapped (she was actually just getting into her own car). His interactions with his new family are equally fraught, as he struggles to navigate the complex emotions and expectations of being a father figure.

Despite the chaotic and often uncomfortable situations Wilson finds himself in, the film has a lot of heart and humor. Harrelson gives a stellar performance as the cantankerous but ultimately lovable Wilson, and he has great chemistry with his co-stars. Dern is excellent as Pippi, conveying both her vulnerability and strength, and Amara captures the teenage angst and confusion of Claire perfectly.

The film also features some beautiful cinematography, showcasing the snowy landscapes of Minnesota and capturing the small moments of intimacy and connection between the characters. The soundtrack, which includes a mix of classic and contemporary songs, adds to the film's quirky charm.

Overall, Wilson is a poignant and funny exploration of family, forgiveness, and the human connection. It doesn't shy away from the messy and complicated nature of relationships, but ultimately offers a message of hope and redemption.