The trailer popped up on my YouTube two days ago.

A Sofia Coppola film.

Bill Murray.

The same ‘Lost in Translation’ tempo and vibe.

I knew, without question, that this movie was exactly what I needed. I should tell you also, I saw ‘Lost in Translation’ five times in the cinema when it came out, and countless times since. It speaks to me in a way I can’t even explain.

So the fact that the band were back together and releasing a new flick was all I needed to propel me from a pandemic induced stupor, straight back into an inclosed room with a bunch of my favourite strangers.

Popcorn.
Large coke.
Big screen.

I’d almost forgotten what this experience was like.

Then the movie started, and I felt at home.

But soon I was restless.

I like Rashida Jones (who doesn’t?), but Bill Murray took far too long to make an appearance.

When Bill Murray is on screen, you realise he’s at a level everyone else can only dream of.

Trying to put his magic into words is near impossible. As with ‘Lost in Translation’, here it feels like Murray just turned up unannounced and decided to be part of the story.

He bounces through the scenes as if nothing is at stake and he’s just there to chat and put a smile on your face.

It’s not until two thirds through that you realise his character is actually deep and complex. He hides this fact by the seemingly casual way he strolls through the movie.

How to tell you about this film without giving spoilers? All you need to know is Bill will make you laugh simply by sitting in a car.

Trust me.

There’s a shot of him sitting in his car outside Rashida Jones’s apartment and it’ll have you in near hysterics.

This isn’t a review; it’s just a reminder that sometimes an actor elevates the craft in a way that leaves us in awe.

The thing is, ‘Lost in Translation’ was a masterpiece, whereas this new flick is merely a trifle.

But it’s an amusing trifle, full of terrific ingredients.

There’s something about watching Murray as he ages which is poignant and moving. Every time I see him appear on screen I’m aware he’s a genius, and we won’t always have him around.

Often when we do see him, he’s not used in the best way.

That’s why I love that he worked with Sofia Coppola again, she gets him in a way few others do. This movie is an enchanting playground where Bill gets be subtly masterful.

And we don’t know how many more times we’ll get to see him do his thing in this way.

It’s not the best film ever.

Yet it’s Bill being Bill, and you have to go see it.

– Written by Daniel Johnson, https://www.danieljohnsonfilms.co.uk.