Feeling a little lost in the new corporate culture that seems to dominate our modern life? Then you may find solace with the characters in the new film, In Good Company.
Dan Foreman (Dennis Quaid) is an old school throw back of a businessman, a self described dinosaur. Dan is the sales manager for a top national sports magazine, a good family man, his life is pretty happy. Then his magazine is purchased by a global conglomerate, and he is quickly demoted and replaced by young, hotshot Carter Duryea (Topher Grace).
Carter’s career is skyrocketing, but he has his own problems, his life is empty and he is lost. He has a lot of soul searching to do and a lot to learn. Maybe he can learn something from Dan?
This film manages to do something very difficult, as it is able to inspire even as it is downright depressing. The characters go through enormous ups and downs, and have to deal with a lot of change.
It is a complete sleeper; it charms but does not dazzle or flash. All of its slick talk is tongue and cheek, and its real dialogue is clever and honest.
Instead of being slick and flashy, the film relies heavily on the strength of the subject matter and the performance of its actors.
Dennis Quaid shines as he puts in one of his strongest performances in recent years. Topher Grace takes another step forward in this film, playing a character that actually changes from his typical smart ass character to something I have not seen from him before.
Scarlett Johansson once again proves she is one of the brightest young stars, as she subtly charms with the slightest smile.
This is one of those movies that will probably get glossed over by larger films and a lack of hype, but it is definitely worth taking the time to see.
