Hot Air

Well done, "Hot Air"! The film makers have delivered a clever story with incredible heart, peppered with great comedic moments from the well-chosen cast.

At its core is a father-son story, showing us how each one changes under the influence of the other. The film joins Major (Jere Burns), a live-on-the-edge fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants con man, with sincere and grounded Lesley (Matthew Gray Gubler). However, there are no poignant montages of father teaching son to ride a bike or play catch. Instead, as the synopsis describes, "The two set out on a comic adventure, helping one pursue the love of his life while the other leaves a trail of broken hearts and bank accounts in his wake." Hilarity ensues.

The result is a comedy with genuine heart, that integrates a romantic subplot without becoming a rom-com. Enhanced by a unique soundtrack, the music fits well with the story, as well as the setting (Austin, TX). See it once, then see it again. You'll notice things you didn't spot the first time.