Please Give

Alex and Kate are a successful NYC couple who make a living by combing through the belongings of dead people in search of rare, antique pieces to display in their eclectic furniture shop and resell at a ridiculous profit.  They live with their rebellious teenage daughter next door to a cantankerous old woman named Andra - their tenant who must die in order for them to expand their apartment into the home of their dreams.  Alex and Kate's lives start to get complicated when they befriend Andra's granddaughters and unlikely relationships start to form.  Written and directed by Nicole Holofcener ("Friends with Money") - well-known for her interesting, complicated characters - the film is a satisfying balance of biting humor and authentic sentiment.  Played by Holofcener's long-time collaborator and muse Catherine Keener, Kate is a woman who should be happy with all life has given her, but instead feels guilty at all her good fortune.  To compensate, she compulsively gives money to the homeless and tries her hand at volunteering - all the while condescendingly pitying those less fortunate and completely missing the point of her good deeds, thus becoming the bad person that she strives not to be.  The excellent supporting cast includes Oliver Platt as Kate's complacent husband, and Rebecca Hall and Amanda Peet (in a glorious turn as the self-centered and bitchy Mary) as their neighbor's granddaughters.  "Please Give" is a wonderfully entertaining and insightful look into the lives of wealthy Manhattanites that gives generously with both hands.


4 out of 5 stars