A day-dreamer escapes his anonymous life by disappearing into a world of fantasies filled with heroism, romance and action. When his job along with that of his co-worker are threatened, he takes action in the real world embarking on a global journey that turns into an adventure more extraordinary than anything he could have ever imagined.
Surprisingly for such a big-budget spectacle, it is in the details that Walter Mitty really works.
Two hours of gloopy, insipid, narcissistic wish fulfilment ensues, alongside an uncomfortably extended promotion for dating site eHarmony.
Some points are blasted at you like an Alpine horn, yet you can barely hear the film’s central “seize the moment” message amidst the clamour of uplifting anthems and craven product plugs.
As a director, this feels like Stiller’s moment. Mitty is a film that bravely rejects cynicism. In many ways, it’s the new Forrest Gump. Go with it and it is, in all senses, wonderful.
Enjoyable but flawed comedy.
Like most daydreams, The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty is funny, sad, weird and corny all at once – and you’ll probably only remember the good bits as soon as it’s finished. But it’s still a lot better than real life...
Passably entertaining and spectacular, though seldom lands the big emotional sucker punches.
The story loses momentum and humour but the scenery is spectacular and Stiller gives a very likeable performance.
He has delivered a film that is pleasant, whimsical and just a little bland.
A disappointment.
The Secret Life of Walter Mitty feels like two films in one, each jostling for position, each disliking the other. They would far rather cut loose and strike out on their own.
General release. Check local listings for show times.
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