Her - B+

Rated R, 119 minutes

Joaquin Phoenix

Intriguing, affecting "Her" a truly modern romantic comedy

Part romantic comedy, part drama, and a small infusion of science-fiction, the new movie "Her" is an oddly soulful, well-acted take on contemporary romance. Directed, written and produced by Spike Jonze ("Being John Malkovich") it's one of the more original, satisfying films of the year. Set in Los Angeles in the near future, the movie tells the story of a withdrawn, depressed writer named Theodore (Joaquin Phoenix) who falls in love with his computer's highly advanced operating system (voiced by Scarlet Johansson). Sweet, funny and unconventional, with "Her" director and writer Jonze has created a touching, often fascinating but somewhat one-sided tribute to modern romance. In Jonze's handsome, crisp portrait, romance occurs between human and machine, though both may become increasingly frustrated by the limitations that each face, and can the machine, as advanced as it may be, truly and sincerely love you back? We probably know the answer to that, but it's often fun to watch, and Jonze's futuristic touches can be intriguing (with phones and computers interacting seamlessly) and odd (why do all the men wear such oddly retro fitting i.e. high waisted slacks?).  However, the casting in "Her" is close to perfect and it helps the film work beautifully, with the sci-fi oddness of it all taking a back seat to the relationships. Phoenix gives another of his slightly off-kilter but charming perfromances, while the breathy Johannson is just as touching in a voice-only role. Amy Adams shines once again in a supporting role as one of Theodore's long-standing friends with issues of her own, Chris Pratt ("Parks and Recreation") is also ingratiating as one of Theodore's co-workers, while Jonze himself gets in some funny lines as a foul-mouthed, pint-sized alien in one of Theodore's cool 3D games (also a nice touch). "Her" is an unconventional romance for sure, and it all ends in a bittersweet but poignant way. It's premise is borderline thin, as if it knows its own limitations, with little place to go, particularly in its last act, but Phoenix and Johannson's voice have good chemistry throughout and that more or less carries the film. Expect more accolades to come for this different but entertaining film. Definitely worth a look.

Wes's Grade: B+