Walter. For the longest time, as I’ve been working through all these Virginia Madsen films, I don’t think I’ve come across one that has left me quite as stumped on what to say as this one. It’s so offbeat and unusual, but in the best possible way. I found myself laughing out loud more than once, which, honestly, doesn’t happen to me often these days.

And yeah, it’s good, man. Really good.

Released in 2015, Walter is a quirky little film that stars Andrew J. West in the lead role, with a supporting cast that includes Neve Campbell, Milo Ventimiglia, William H. Macy, and, of course, Virginia Madsen. It’s directed by Anna Mastro and written by Paul Shoulberg, who adapted it from his own 2010 short film of the same name.

I went into this movie completely blind, and I’m convinced that’s the best way to experience it. It’s the kind of film that reveals itself slowly, piece by piece, and you should really discover it that way, without knowing too much in advance.Here’s what I will tell you, which is basically the kind of stuff you’d find on the DVD case or in the trailer. The story centres around Walter, a seemingly ordinary guy with an extraordinary belief: that he is the son of God, but he’s not “Jesus”, as he clarifies early on, that was some other Dude.

According to Walter, his divine purpose is to decide the eternal fate of everyone he meets. That’s his true calling. His day job? Taking tickets at a local movie cinema.

And that’s pretty much all you need to know before diving in.

Virginia Madsen plays Karen Benjamin, Walter’s long-suffering mother. And as you’d expect, she brings layers to the role that only she could. There’s a deep sadness to Karen that gradually becomes clear as the movie unfolds. Life has dealt her a rough hand, but she’s carried on with grace and resilience. What I love about her performance here is the way she mixes that quiet melancholy with moments of humour.
She manages to flex her comedy chops, and there are a couple of scenes, especially involving eggs, that had me genuinely laughing out loud. Her chemistry with Andrew J. West is just right, especially in those small, slice-of-life moments that make their relationship feel all too real.

(I’m half snorting just remembering a scene around the table with the two of them as I write this.)

Virginia Madsen was one of the first “big” actors to commit to the film, something Paul Shoulberg was grateful for, speaking to Indianapolis Monthly he commented;

“The first person to sign on after that was Virginia Madsen, which is really important for a film. Once you have an established person sign on, people start taking it more seriously. ”

She’s also been spoken fondly of the film and her time working on it as well. In an interview with Melissa Parker for smashinginterviews.com she’d gush about it a little;

“I love to work in an ensemble cast. It’s my favourite way to work. Even though my scenes were only with Walter (Andrew J. West), I’m still in the midst of this wonderful group of people. I wanted to meet the director, and she was very interesting. I would say that it’s a comedy. It does have its dramatic elements, but it is a delight to watch, and it’s more fun than it is sad. Of course, the entire story hinges on how people are dealing with grief. ”

The film as a whole is quirky and clever, filled with dry humour and subtle insights into the human condition. It’s not trying to be flashy or loud, but instead draws you in with its oddball charm. There’s a unique tone here, a mix of the absurd and the profound.
It’s got its own flavour all its own. It’s light on its feet but also hits you with moments of surprising depth. One minute you’re laughing, the next you’re “huh”ing.

Walter might not have been on everyone’s radar, but it’s definitely a hidden gem. And Virginia Madsen, as always, brings something special to her role, helping elevate the film beyond just its quirky premise. It’s a cast piece again, you can’t fault any of them, really.
And again, I’m smirking to myself thinking of some of the lines William H. Macy comes out with.

Virginia Madsen has of course worked with William H. Macy before, the first time would be in A Murderous Affair, and they were both in Ghosts of Mississippi as well.

So yeah, if you’re up for something different, something that’ll have you laughing one moment and thinking the next, this is one to check out.

But believe me, the less you know going in, the better. I think so at least.

Availability:

Good, good – Region 1 DVD’s are easy to find. Just be careful when searching as it isn’t the only film out there called “Walter”.

Gallery:

Trailer:

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