The Station Agent

The Station Agent is a quiet, thoughtful, funny film by Thomas McCarthy. This was his first writing/directing effort, and he pulls it off without a hitch. Fin (Peter Dinklage) is a dwarf who moves to the New Jersey countryside when his only friend dies. There, at the old train depot he inherits, Fin meets and befriends two of the townspeople, despite his best efforts not to. McCarthy's script never becomes too sappy, and he injects as much humor as he can to keep the film lighthearted and fresh. While Fin falls on hard times, as do his taller friends, the group holds strong even in the worst of times. The Station Agent follows these three loners as they bond, and shows just how important a strong foundation of friends is. It also dismisses the whole notion of prejudice, especially for Fin and his dwarfism. But lets not get too sappy ourselves. Bobby Cannavale is hilarious as Joe, Fin's first friend in New Jersey, and Patricia Clarkson balances the humor and moodiness of the other two. It is a thoroughly enjoyable film, and will stay with you long after watching it.

Genre - Comedy (3.75)

Screenplay (4)
Acting (4)
Production (3)
Directing (4)