I found this movie quite by accident on the Independent Film Channel on day while I was channel surfing. I didn't get to see all of it that first time...but I made it a point to watch it in its entirety when it was on again. I loved this movie. I wouldn't give it a 10. But I would definitely give it a 7. The one thing I liked about it was its realism. This is the way people are...and this is the way people behave...and this is the way people look. The character development was outstanding and the plot was believable. The shore scenes were also wonderful. I would highly recommend this film to anyone.
19 Reviews
Interesting personal film with many TV actors involved.
webbigail5 September 2002
I caught this film by accident on IFC (Independent Film Channel) yesterday. I didn't really know what to expect, but I found the film involving enough to hold my attention.
Basically, this is a film about a man whose life is like a rudderless boat. Though we see only a week or so of his life, it seems clear that this is pretty much the way his whole life has gone. The main character, Francis MacGowan (played by writer/director Matt Mulhern) returns to his childhood home to sell the house after his father dies. He cannot, however, seem to begin the process, choosing instead to spend his days walking the nearby beach, recalling disparate events of his childhood. Eventually he makes friends with his dad's neighbors and meets Lucy (Hallie Foote) who falls in love with him. Unfortunately for Lucy, Francis is married.
Matt Mulhern is best known as Lieutenant Holowachuk on 'Major Dad.' (In the film, he plays an actor who appeared on a TV sitcom as a soldier. Does this imply that other aspects of the story are also autobiographical?) Also appearing in this movie are Beverly Archer and Jon Cypher (Gunny and the general from 'Major Dad'). Other TV actors include Alan Ruck and Michael Boatman (both from 'Spin City'), and Hal Holbrook (from 'Evening Shade' and 100+ other movies and TV series).
It's not mentioned in the trivia section for this film, but I'm pretty sure Hal Holbrook also supplied the dead father's telephone voice, which makes the scene on the beach between Francis and the old man just a tad spooky. Was this supposed to be Francis' dad giving him advice?
Everyone in the movie plays his/her role well, but Hallie Foote is a standout as the lonely tourguide who falls hard for this sensitive young man.
There are no car chases, fist fights, gun battles, not even a murder. No heroes and no real villains. This is a sweet and simple story of a moment of indecision in a man's life.
Some viewers will complain that nothing much happens here. I found it true-to-life and involving.
Basically, this is a film about a man whose life is like a rudderless boat. Though we see only a week or so of his life, it seems clear that this is pretty much the way his whole life has gone. The main character, Francis MacGowan (played by writer/director Matt Mulhern) returns to his childhood home to sell the house after his father dies. He cannot, however, seem to begin the process, choosing instead to spend his days walking the nearby beach, recalling disparate events of his childhood. Eventually he makes friends with his dad's neighbors and meets Lucy (Hallie Foote) who falls in love with him. Unfortunately for Lucy, Francis is married.
Matt Mulhern is best known as Lieutenant Holowachuk on 'Major Dad.' (In the film, he plays an actor who appeared on a TV sitcom as a soldier. Does this imply that other aspects of the story are also autobiographical?) Also appearing in this movie are Beverly Archer and Jon Cypher (Gunny and the general from 'Major Dad'). Other TV actors include Alan Ruck and Michael Boatman (both from 'Spin City'), and Hal Holbrook (from 'Evening Shade' and 100+ other movies and TV series).
It's not mentioned in the trivia section for this film, but I'm pretty sure Hal Holbrook also supplied the dead father's telephone voice, which makes the scene on the beach between Francis and the old man just a tad spooky. Was this supposed to be Francis' dad giving him advice?
Everyone in the movie plays his/her role well, but Hallie Foote is a standout as the lonely tourguide who falls hard for this sensitive young man.
There are no car chases, fist fights, gun battles, not even a murder. No heroes and no real villains. This is a sweet and simple story of a moment of indecision in a man's life.
Some viewers will complain that nothing much happens here. I found it true-to-life and involving.
Should be making more movies!
Goooog10 June 2006
After seeing "Duane Hopwood" I was able to find a DVD of "Walking to the Waterline" on Google, in Holland - of all places - and since I enjoyed "Duane Hopwood" so much, I sent away for it and found it just as enjoyable! This is a writer/director who should be making more movies, and a wonderful actor too. Anyone who is interested in something beyond the normal Hollywood fair, so often predictable and boring, will love this. The writing and the truth of the film makes you scratch your head wondering what has to happen to bring involving, interesting films like this to the broader marketplace. Come on Hollywood - take notice! Celia Rodriguez Tempe Arizona
This is an enjoyable small film.
Middleuvnite7 January 2005
Anyone who knows the fleeting value of "fame" will find this tale true and funny. I like that Mulhern put himself out there as a writer (of a story familiar to him), and director. I also found the unique shoot location (a tourist elephant on the New Jersey shore)a lively metaphor for the passing strangeness of life. Here's a guy (Mulhern)off balance following the death of his father when he visits the family summer home to empty and sell it. He's away from his current life, swept back into his childhood with gay neighbors who knew him "when." He finds warmth with a quirky woman (Foote)who shows him kindness and genuine regard. I found it touching and delightful. Loved the cameos by Broderick and Flanagan written with smooth economy of dialog showing the cold stone of agency people when you're no longer "hot."
check it out
Perogee70010 June 2006
I'm an expat who was pleasantly surprised to stumble on this lovely little movie one night while channel surfing at home. I've lived here in amsterdam for 15 years, but I'm born and raised in lubbock, Texas, and it was great fun to see a film that was so, so American in tone and texture, without in any way being reminiscent of the absolute shlock that dribbles out of the u.s. movie business. indie film missed a gem when they didn't take notice - i almost felt bad for the filmmaker, knowing i was sitting about as far away from the chance this will ever be seen on American screens as he is, but i guess you never know. a terrific cast, wonderful writing, moving and funny performances, a heartfelt story, what more can you ask! check it out if you ever get the chance. john austerling amsterdam
A sleeper
don-27320 April 2003
Very well executed film about a man's life a at turning point. Very surprising and engaging. Matt Mulhern is much more accomplished then his resume would betray. Deserves more attention then the occasional screening on IFC. Hopefully more movies will be developed by Mulhern.
True, so true
Ulalee5610 June 2006
Oh, do I miss home. I actually grew up on the coast of Maryland, but this film made me remember the east coast vibe, which is something you never, and I mean never, feel while living in England. Matt Mulhern did a fantastic job of portraying that unique "shore" feeling, while inhabiting the movie with characters I actually cared about, laughed with and even shed a tear for. The acting was terrific from top to bottom and the whole film felt as if it was crafted out of love of place and people. Hallie Foote was wonderful as Lucy and the supporting characters all did a lovely job. a surprise that I hope others get a chance to experience, without the over-the-top Hollywood bells and whistles. just a real, character-driven story of love and adjusting to loss that will have you reaching for a hankie, but never begs your sympathy - it's just true, so true. Shelly Fitzgerald London, England
Fantastic!!!!!
sunshin32930 April 2000
This is one of the most fascinating and thoughtful movies of all time! It was funny, sweet, a slice of action, and a bit of tears! It had something for everyone! Alan Ruck did a great job in his role! (I don't want to give too much away, because you have got to see this one!) Matthew Broderick was classic in this beautiful movie!!! Four stars!
Sensitive and superbly well acted.
vlsauv842 October 2000
The story, though low key is heartfelt and the acting is what the craft is about. While cruising cable I was struck by the images along the sea shore and was pulled right into the story. It's remarkably well constructed.
lucky I taped it
Alowish6610 June 2006
Hal Holbrook in a small role, Matthew Broderick in a small role, what a funny little gem. I saw it on IFC a few years ago, and loved it, so the next time it came on I made sure to tape it. Matt Mulhern gives a very strong, emotional performance as the main character, and I was so happy to see he made another movie, "Duane Hopwood" with David Schwimmer and Janeane Garafalo, that was unfortunately not near me in theaters, but which I just caught on DVD, and it too is so full of life and truth and honesty, that I had to go back and watch his first film again. I hope this talented filmmaker gets the chance to make more films that bring such authenticity and feeling to what is all to often over-hyped, sundance-i-fied, boring ass drivel. an indie by and for adults, not some film school hooligan with a 16 millimeter camera and a dream. strong acting, a beautiful score. bravo! Ellen Degeneres
On a higher, but not astral, plain
slogadune17 September 2002
"Walking" is a higher order of film; it's more true to life and has far more nuance than the usual Hollywood product: no cardboard cut-out characters here or simplistic situations.
More often than not I find Independent films a risky proposition as far as entertainment is concerned--they are usually too artsy, too abstract, and/or just plain boring. But movies like this make one glad there is such a thing as Independent film.
I agree with some of the other reviewers: "Walking" is somewhat slow at first but one soon becomes involved in it; though I liked it a lot I'd give it a 7 or 8: it's easy to get carried away in one's praise and enthusiasm for movies like this because it's such a relief not to be subjected to the same old cliches for the umpteenth time.
More often than not I find Independent films a risky proposition as far as entertainment is concerned--they are usually too artsy, too abstract, and/or just plain boring. But movies like this make one glad there is such a thing as Independent film.
I agree with some of the other reviewers: "Walking" is somewhat slow at first but one soon becomes involved in it; though I liked it a lot I'd give it a 7 or 8: it's easy to get carried away in one's praise and enthusiasm for movies like this because it's such a relief not to be subjected to the same old cliches for the umpteenth time.
One of the truest movies I've ever seen!
CTDuke2 February 2003
I don't know what critics have said about this movie, but as someone who grew up as a summer resident of the "Jersey Shore", there is no other movie that captures the actual feelings, interactions and mood of the area than this. Matt Mulhern slammed a home run for reality here. The neighbors on both sides of the house, and the LACK of development of their character [from a "critical" standpoint] is the brilliance of this movie. That's how much you got to know your neighbors at the shore, no matter how long you lived next to them. Alan Ruck is an outstanding actor, and has an excellent Philly accent for a Chicago native. Congratulations, Matt. It is one I shall always remember, and recommend to all my shore buddies.
make it available here in the states
Fini91210 June 2006
The reality that movies as authentic as this get lost in the shuffle is depressing to me. As a movie lover, and a fan of wonderful acting, I was really, really surprised to find this film on a trip to Europe on television, watch it with two friends of mine, one of whom was raised on the jersey shore, and all of us so impressed at the end. Why do you have to go to Poland to see a sweet, funny, emotionally involving little movie about these wonderful characters from the southern coast of New Jersey? The writer and director, Matt Mulhern, has created a subtle, wonderfully crafted film, while obviously on a low budget, that will make you feel things and think about things that 50 million dollar Hollywood movies don't even approach. I highly recommend "Walking to the Waterline" and someone should make it available here in the states. World traveler
Filmed in Cape May NJ
TLC-217 March 2002
Okay, this has the look and feel of a first-time independent film... and that's a good thing, if you ever think about the weekend films with their audience-alter versions.
AND, if you have ever been to Cape May NJ, you'll love the constant background images of Victorian houses! [Making you think, ' this reminds me of Cape May']
AND, if you have ever been to Cape May NJ, you'll love the constant background images of Victorian houses! [Making you think, ' this reminds me of Cape May']
The epitome of a classic independent film -- Nothing short of incredible!
rabbijim15 November 2006
I caught this late one night on the Independent Film Channel, and I was bowled over! A small but totally honest film that pulls no punches. The main character's inability to make a final decision reminded me of the Jack Burden character in Warren's "All The King's Men." Also, I loved the metaphor of the once-noteworthy but now largely forgotten, ultimately hollow Lucy the Elephant mirroring his own present stage of life. Well-acted all around, but Alan Ruck's needy, irritating next-door neighbor nearly steals the movie! I can't say enough good about this film! The only reason I gave it a 9 instead of a 10 is that, dammit, SOMEBODY needs to get busy and release this gem to DVD...PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE!!!
A delight!
john-8334 March 2002
This low-key, wonderful film deserves much more than the occasional showing on IFC. What a surprise. A little slow to start off with, but like a good novel, you soon get into the story. Not that much actually happens. No explosions, nobody gets shot, no spooky stuff. But the feelings are more real than any action thriller could dream of. Tender acting and an unusually believable ending. Top marks!
I am so impressed!
randikaufman28 March 2001
I was just watching the independent film channel one day and I saw this wonderful little movie. I consider myself somewhat of a movie buff and I had never heard of the picture, so I was happily shocked to see a movie of this caliber. I believe that the film displays the true emotions of what life is really like and the thought process that goes on in the average person's psyche. I especially enjoyed the performance of Matt Mulhern, he was captivating and truly human. Overall, I would highly recommend this movie and I hope to see more work from Matt Mulhern in the future!
A great movie that seems to have been hidden away.
emgarb19 March 2002
I started watching this movie on IFC one day and it was so wonderfully done; great characters and story - well developed - it catches the feel of the Jersey shore so beautifully and the people who live there year round and often work in Atlantic City. Not to be missed.
What Was The Purpose of This Movie???!!!
Arthur217435 September 2002
I'm not sure if I will be giving anything away about the plot of this movie in my comments, but if you don't want to risk my spoiling things for you, you might want to see the movie and then see if you agree or disagree with my observations later.
For the life of me, I can't figure out why this movie was made. Was it an exercise? Did Mulhern do this to get some practice in film making?
Actually the directing wasn't bad, and the same goes for the cinematography, it's just the writing and the plot(?) that got my goat. Early on Francis (Mulhern) is trying to reach someone by phone and was I getting glassy-eyed already, or wasn't it explained that the guy ducking his phone calls (Broderick) was this actor's agent who didn't have any work for him? I finally figured that out later on in the movie, but at the time I couldn't tell what was going on.
Francis is away from his home and family dealing with the house and personal effects of his deceased parents and doesn't want his wife to be there with him. Is it because they are such failures as parents and he wants to get away from the noisy and unruly kids? Is his life with his wife unsatisfying? He says he loves her when asked by Lucy (Foote), with whom he has an affair.
Basically, this would be just a story about a loser who was self absorbed and his kinda weird neighbors, were it not for a cameo by Hal Holbrook and the marvelous presence of Hallie Foote. Matthew Broderick's appearance was more of a distraction than anything. I know he can act, but he wasn't given much opportunity in this movie, and his role should perhaps have been filled with someone on a lower rung career-wise.
Now if the purpose of this movie was to showcase Hallie Foote then I give it a 10. Her character was the most human, not to mention normal, at least when compared to the other characters in this little drama and her physical attraction was such that she even overcame my innate aversion for underdeveloped females with her understated sensuality and female magnetism.
People go to the movies to be entertained, inspired, uplifted, or just to escape from their ho-hum lives, but if you want to see a movie that will convince you that your life isn't so bad after all, see this one. Most folks will probably find that their lives are better than those of the characters in this flick. At least I hope so.
For the life of me, I can't figure out why this movie was made. Was it an exercise? Did Mulhern do this to get some practice in film making?
Actually the directing wasn't bad, and the same goes for the cinematography, it's just the writing and the plot(?) that got my goat. Early on Francis (Mulhern) is trying to reach someone by phone and was I getting glassy-eyed already, or wasn't it explained that the guy ducking his phone calls (Broderick) was this actor's agent who didn't have any work for him? I finally figured that out later on in the movie, but at the time I couldn't tell what was going on.
Francis is away from his home and family dealing with the house and personal effects of his deceased parents and doesn't want his wife to be there with him. Is it because they are such failures as parents and he wants to get away from the noisy and unruly kids? Is his life with his wife unsatisfying? He says he loves her when asked by Lucy (Foote), with whom he has an affair.
Basically, this would be just a story about a loser who was self absorbed and his kinda weird neighbors, were it not for a cameo by Hal Holbrook and the marvelous presence of Hallie Foote. Matthew Broderick's appearance was more of a distraction than anything. I know he can act, but he wasn't given much opportunity in this movie, and his role should perhaps have been filled with someone on a lower rung career-wise.
Now if the purpose of this movie was to showcase Hallie Foote then I give it a 10. Her character was the most human, not to mention normal, at least when compared to the other characters in this little drama and her physical attraction was such that she even overcame my innate aversion for underdeveloped females with her understated sensuality and female magnetism.
People go to the movies to be entertained, inspired, uplifted, or just to escape from their ho-hum lives, but if you want to see a movie that will convince you that your life isn't so bad after all, see this one. Most folks will probably find that their lives are better than those of the characters in this flick. At least I hope so.
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