Movie Review – “Hello, My Name is Doris”

Quirky…Heartfelt…Flawed…Hilarious….

These four words describe the main character in, “Hello, My Name is Doris.”

This laugh out loud comedy with dramatic moments engages you from the start when you meet the vintage loving, clutter collecting, slightly clueless, romantic Doris, (spectacularly played by Sally Fields).  It is an adventure from the start, as you get inside the head of the character; and her various fixations and daydreams after she meets the new art director where she works.  That Doris, with her mismatched, crazy wardrobe, actually works in this hip company environment provides laughs and more than a few jabs at the perceived millennial mindset.

Like all misperceptions, this movie reminds you that what you see isn’t always what you think. The handsome, but old soul Art Director (played by Max Greenfield), sees beyond the outward appearance of “Doris” and befriends her after a series of well-played Doris-driven opportunities. He develops an unlikely friendship with her, unaware she is pining for him romantically.

The movie pokes fun at the generational divide: aging versus younger, tech-savvy women. Interactions among lifelong friends of Doris and others create hysterical scenes. Doris puts herself “out there,” much to the chagrin of her judgmental brother and sister in law. She relies on the knowledge of her friend’s 13 year old granddaughter, with fashion tips, places to go, online activities and more. This opens the doors to another series of unforgettable moments.

Despite the humor, the movie delivers many layers of this main character, including the darker side of losing yourself to the in-home care of a loved one, and how clutter and objects with memories overwhelm the psyche.

Along her “I’m possible” journey, Doris encounters a slightly cheesy motivational speaker (played by Peter Gallagher) a concerned shrink, and a series of alternative, holistic, organic characters who accept Doris and graciously welcome her into their circles.

Sally Fields soars with this character, making all of her quirks and daydreams so endearing you will laugh until you cry!

Bottom line… “My Name is Doris” is a must see movie and “Best Actress – Oscar worthy” in my movie goer book. Need I say more? See for yourself.