Film Review: Reign Over Me

I strongly believe in women’s intuition. So why didn’t I follow my instinct? Adam
Sandler is mainly a comic. I don’t enjoy his type of film. Whatever made anyone think he could do serious drama and especially one about the emotional 9/11? His nasal voice and speech from clenched teeth was annoying. I am totally empathic to anyone who suffered such a blow. Adam Sandler plays the part of Dr Charlie Fineman. His wife and three daughter were killed in the plane during the 9/11 tragedy. He simply couldn’t cope. He becomes slovenly in appearance. He refuses to even remember that he had a family. He will have nothing to do with his in-laws. He has rage tantrums to the extent that hospital treatment is recommended. By chance Charlie Fineman meets his old college roommate Dr Alan Johnson played by Don Cheadle. Alan is a successful dentist but not a totally happy person. He is married to his gorgeous wife played by Jada Pinkett Smith. He has two children and everything that should make for a positive life. He just doesn’t feel free. When he encounters Charlie and they once again become friends Dr Alan Johnson almost loses what he has. His marriage hits a skid mark. He becomes so involved with Charlie that he forgets what he has in his home life.
I do believe that tragic circumstances can ‘unhinge someone.’ I can even accept the rage and the lifestyle of Charlie Fineman. Why did the director have to ruin it with silly sub plots? I suppose that the funny nurse in Dr Johnson’s office is supposed to bring dramatic relief. The beautiful patient who tries to seduce Dr Johnson is fodder for another film. When she shows up as a friend of Charlie Fineman at the end of the film I become angry. Adam Sandler is not appropriate for this part. The film does not ring true. I thought it was inexcusable to have a film on this topic done so badly.