This Is Where I Leave You

This Is Where I Leave You is about one family whose dysfunction brings them tears and frustration while bringing the audience laughter and joy. Its dark humor fits the characters and story well, which is no miracle considering Jonathan Tropper wrote both the screenplay and the book on which it's based.

The Altman children are gathering for their father's funeral, plus one week of sitting shiva with their mother (Jane Fonda)--even though they all have other things to worry about in their lives. Judd (Jason Bateman) is dealing with the fallout of finding out that his wife has been cheating on him. Wendy (Tina Fey) is raising her two kids while her husband spends most of his time on the phone with (or traveling to) London for business. Paul (Corey Stoll) and his wife Annie (Kathryn Hahn) have been trying (unsuccessfully) to have a baby). Phillip (Adam Driver) is still figuring out what being an adult means.

Throw in a few nosy neighbors, a couple of old flings, and a trip to temple, and this week turns into the most emotionally-draining and challenging week in Altman family history. Which is all the better for viewers. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll hug the people you watch with. Then you'll want to read any Tropper you haven't yet, because as brilliant as the cast of This is Where I Leave You is (and they are), the story and dialogue are what really take the cake here.