I got Ruby Sparks on Black Friday, when the price dropped significantly. I wasn't sure about it, but I was definitely curious.
Calvin is a writer who wrote a fantastically popular novel in his late teens, but has since struggled to write anything. He isn't helped in thi by having a social life entirely defined by book promos and meeting up with his brother. He had a girlfriend once, but they broke up in rather ugly fashion.
He's gotten a dog to help him meet people, but nobody seems to think much of it. So his therapist suggests an exercise for him, to write a page about a woman who would like his dog.
As something to do, he gives it a try, and finds writing their relationship inspiring. As part of it, of course, he invests a history for her.
After a few days of writing, imagine his surprise when he goes to leave his house, remarks to himself that he needs to walk the dog, and hears a woman say back to him that she'll take care of it.
When he sees her (immediately afterwards), he's convinced he's insane, especially when she confirms that her name is Ruby, the same as he's been writing.
What is he to do, when he gets confirmation that she is real? Does the answer change when he figures out he can control her with his writing?
From this point, it went about as expected; interestingly, but with a mix of amusement and pain. Happily, the writers were familiar with the Sting song, and came up with a nice ending.
It was quite a performance for Ms Kazan as Ruby, who had to show quite a range, some of which was over an impressively short time. Mr Dano, as Calvin, was also very good as the generally disinterested nebbish, though his role was not as demanding. Antonio Banderas was also very good in a small role as Calvin's step-father.
I mostly enjoyed it, although there were some scenes that were very painful to watch (by design). I'm sure I'll watch it again, although I have no idea when.
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