You Can Count on Me (2000) - A-

Laura Linney plays a small town upstate New York single mom who works at a bank. Her life with her son is turned upside down when her brother (Mark Ruffalo) comes to visit. Her 8-year-old son lives in a fantasy world but since Ruffalo treats him as an adult, a strong bond is formed quickly. But things aren't easy for Linney or Ruffalo who were victims of a tragedy at an early age. If it sounds like an Indie Sundance movie, it was. But this one actually holds up on repeat viewings.

Ruffalo burst on the movie scene with his natural performance as ne'er-do-well drifter Terry. Linney is equally solid and their scenes together are surprisingly affecting. The musical choices are perfect and the script is unpredictable. Written and directed by Kenneth Lonergan, important themes such as faith, finding purpose and meaning in life, and family ties are intelligently explored. Lonergan plays the town priest and his discussions with Linney as she searches for herself, God, and purpose are first-rate. It's efficiently directed and edited without being flashy. But this is a writing and acting showcase all the way. A-

Favorite scene: Ruffalo takes his nephew to shoot pool.