Living with Uncle Ray

I found this film a quirky and endearing trip through the experiences of a handful of individuals whose lives overlap- at moments quite intensely. There was a great deal of very unique humor carried on with the dialog, as well as the characters' interactions, including ones bordering on the fictitious, like Ray's communications with the news anchors through the television. I liked how it illustrated his mind's slipping into and out of reality, but without setting a dream sequence or some "now we are in Ray's mind" convention of some kind. I was very impressed with the cast of dysfunctional neighbors- a hysterical group of talents whose relationships are fascinating- at times to pitied, and at others, a warmth to be envied. The neighbor's son is played with a truth that constantly made me question whether he was actually an actor acting. Overall, I thought the story was sweet and sad (and laugh out loud funny)- and all of the performances were very real and engaging. I also particularly enjoyed Uncle Ray's way of interacting (or avoiding interaction) with his sister's children- who come up with wonderfully entertaining ways of approaching him and trying to figure out how to penetrate this imaginary wall he dwells behind. It was an original blending of a rather tragic and almost depressing situation with a spontaneous, youthful environment- a super formula for a ride through the unexpected. And again, the situations with the neighbors added a flavorful accompaniment to the main storyline. I can honestly say that I cared about all of the characters involved and what happened to them- a success for any storyteller.

A very well done and heartfelt story that has no doubt been played out in real life over and over.

It gives an inside glimpse of some of the battles our vets face when they return home. The struggle to re-adjust, and the all too real memories that haunt and overwhelm their very sanity.

The film was both lighthearted and serious by providing a warm background while tackling a very real and often forgotten issue that many have and still do face.

Uncle Ray sports an excellent and lovable cast of characters who provide a inviting and down to earth portrayal of family life, the human condition, and the awkwardness associated with it.

Gene Duffy, was great as the dark, and disturbed, Uncle Ray.

"Living With Uncle Ray" is a very enjoyable and well conveyed warm story that will make you laugh while it yanks a little at your heartstrings.

****************Highly Recommended by JF!!******************

I loved this movie. It was really a heartwarming story of a dysfunctional family and the love that they have for each other. The characters are well defined, original and brilliant in their performances. The storyline was excellent, with drama, humor, tragedy and redemption. Uncle Ray did an excellent job in portraying a Vietnam Vet who is attempting to reconnect with his life after returning from the war. Uncle Ray's sister and her children find inventive and sometimes humorous ways to cope with their situation. The dysfunctional neighbors bring a colorful, heartwarming and tragic touch to this story. This is a gritty, real life story that packs an emotional punch. I purchased this movie online so that I could watch it again. Try it out, I think you will be surprised.

Living with Uncle Ray was both hysterical and entertaining. Although you can feel for Ray's discomfort with being a Vietnam veteran and having to adapt to a family life, the situation quickly becomes extremely comical. With Ray's niece and nephews irritated with his constant control over the television, they concoct a few plans to distract him while they attempt to regain possession of their coveted television. The scene where Ray gets a new "motorcycle" is hilarious. I won't forget the line, "She's some piece of machinery right there." Of course, once you throw the Humphries and their aggravating pet rooster into the mix, things become even more comical. And then another twist...Ray's sons? You'll just have to watch to see where this tale ends up going and what becomes of its beloved characters.

This is a very good movie that I wish could have been out in the mainstream long ago. I've seen the trailers and had to wait far too long for it. It has everything: Humor, a serious side, compassion (at times), heartache, and it ties all of them together nicely. Mr. Duffy and Ms. Corinna need to be allowed the opportunity to expand on their talents as writers/directors with some back-up from the Hollywood community. Frank Payne, Kipleigh Brown and Gene Duffy all stand out as well as Steven Christopher Parker as Jimmy. It basically shows the struggles of recent Vet Ray who has a sister and 3 kids and the constant struggles for Ray to adapt to civilian life, as well as living with his past. Oh, that poor next door rooster. Do me a favor, watch the flick, then watch it again...I missed a lot of good stuff the first time around because they are so in-depth at telling the story of Uncle Ray. He ... and the movie, deserve better.