Alien at the Movies

This is not a sneak preview. This film has already released.

After the death of her beloved husband, a New York/New Jersey widow Marnie (Susan Sarandon) transplants herself to L.A. to be near her struggling screen writer daughter Lori (Rose Byrne). When Lori avoids her meddlesome mom, Marnie befriends Lori's friends, visits Lori's therapist, volunteers at a hospital, and helps an Apple support staff member because she has too much time & money on her hands. This loosely autobiographical story by writer/director Lorene Scafaria is charming, hysterically funny, & heart-warmingly satisfying as it explores human relationships while dealing with love & loss. Sarandon is magnificent, Byrne is terrific, & J.K. Simmons is delightful. Alien also enjoyed the Italian family scene & the musical selections used to enhance certain other memorable scenes. 

Alien gives it 3 ½ "blue chicken egg & peeing on a stick" stars out of 4.