Forced to work long hours, Oliver’s mother (Melissa McCarthy) has no choice but to leave him in the care of their new neighbor, Vincent (Bill Murray) – a grouchy old man with a fondness for gambling, alcohol, and cynicism. But the two soon form an odd friendship that helps them both begin to look at the world in a new way.

St. Vincent is pretty derivative of other indie dramedies that have come before it. But it’s great to see Bill Murray bringing the laughs again, and playing a more serious, complex character than he has in quite a while. The relationship Vincent forms with Oliver is genuinely interesting and funny.

St. Vincent may veer too much towards the sentimental, but Bill Murray is back in fine form in this heartfelt, funny film that reminds us not to rush too quickly to judge others based on their resumes – or their criminal records.

St. Vincent is rated PG-13 for language and mature themes, such as alcohol use and sexual situations.

© Matt Tory, 2014.