A Man Called Otto - A Movie Review

Life is unexpected. So are the people we meet.

A Man Called Otto is a 2022 film about Otto, a grumpy widower who sees no reason to keep going. His world is small, his days are predictable, and his patience for others is nonexistent. But when a lively young family moves in next door, his life takes a turn he never expected. What starts as irritation slowly blossoms into something more, showing Otto and the audience that even in the darkest times, human connection has the power to save us.

This film is about finding hope when you least expect it. It’s about the small moments that make life meaningful. Otto doesn’t go on a grand adventure or uncover some deep mystery, he simply learns to open up again. That’s what makes A Man Called Otto so powerful. It feels real.

Tom Hanks is phenomenal as Otto. He doesn’t overact or turn Otto into a cartoonish grump. Instead, he plays him with restraint, letting the emotions simmer beneath the surface. His irritation is believable, his pain even more so. In one particular scene, as Otto reflects on his late wife, the weight of his grief is nearly unbearable. Hanks delivers every moment with a quiet intensity that lingers long after the credits roll.

Mariana Treviño is the heart of the film as Marisol, Otto’s new neighbor. She is vibrant, persistent, and full of life, the perfect contrast to Otto’s cold demeanor. But what makes her character special is that she isn’t just there to "fix" him. She has her own struggles, her own journey, and her kindness is never forced. Her chemistry with Hanks is effortless, making their dynamic feel natural and genuine.

Supporting performances from Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Rachel Keller, and Truman Hanks, who plays a young Otto in flashbacks, add depth to the story. Each character serves a purpose, showing how different relationships shape Otto’s transformation.

The film’s visual storytelling plays a crucial role. Director Marc Forster uses muted, cool tones in the beginning, reflecting Otto’s bleak outlook on life. As he begins to connect with those around him, the colors subtly warm up, mirroring his emotional shift. It’s a simple but effective touch.

The cinematography also captures the neighborhood as its own character. It’s not just a setting, it’s a place full of history, memories, and change. We see Otto’s frustration with how things have evolved, but we also see how life moves forward, whether we’re ready or not.

One of the best things about A Man Called Otto is its balance between heavy themes and lighthearted moments. The film doesn’t shy away from grief, loneliness, or even suicide, but it never feels overwhelming. There are moments of genuine humor, mostly from Otto’s blunt, no-nonsense attitude. His interactions with clueless delivery drivers, annoying neighbors, and even a stray cat provide just the right amount of comedic relief.

The pacing is also well-handled. Flashbacks to Otto’s younger years give insight into his character without feeling like unnecessary exposition. They show us who he was before tragedy struck, making his transformation even more impactful.

What makes A Man Called Otto special is that it’s not just about Otto. It’s about everyone he meets. Each person in his life contributes to his journey in some way, reminding us that we never truly heal alone.

The message is simple but profound: life doesn’t always go the way we planned, but it’s the connections we make that give it meaning. Even in our lowest moments, the right people can remind us why we keep going.

A Man Called Otto is a film that stays with you long after it ends. It’s a reminder that kindness, in all its forms, has the power to change lives, even if it’s just a simple conversation, a shared meal, or a small act of help.

It’s streaming on Netflix, don’t miss it.