Dave Peck (Samuel Johnson) is an unemployed 28 year old who lives at home. This urban dweller responds to an ad that reads:
"Have you ever wondered 'What's the meaning of life? Why do we exist?' The answer to this vexing question is now within your reach! You'll find it in a small yet amazing booklet, which will explain, in easy-to-follow, simple terms your reason for being! The booklet, printed on the finest paper, contains illuminating, exquisite color pictures and could be yours for a mere $9.99."
Once he obtains the booklet, Dave tries to share with those around him what he has discovered. But, alas his apartment neighbors are all involved in their own efforts to squeeze some magic and meaning out of their days. Lonely retiree Albert (Barry Otto) is hosting an angel (Geoffrey Rush) who, instead of being uplifting, is a real downer to have around. Dave's brother Lenny (Ben Mendelsohn) is a repossessor with a heart who's obsessed with a supermodel (Leeanna Walsman). In another apartment, Ron (Joel Edgerton), begins drinking with some two-inch tall men while Zack (Jamie Katsamatsas), a little boy, becomes enamored of his piggy bank while forgetting all about the soccer action figure he was saving money to purchase. And Dave's father Jim (Anthony LaPaglia) tries to deal with a persistent homeless man on the street who threatens to commit suicide. It sends him into a funk that only playfulness can eventually take away.
This oddball move is a stop-motion animation feature with puppets directed by Tatia Rosenthal. It is based on short stories by Etgar Keret about various city dwellers and their pursuit of happiness in a world riddled by debt, addiction, suicides, loneliness, and constant change. The main point: the meaning of life is different for each person.
Special features on the DVD include "Crazy Glue" and "A Buck's Worth" - short films from director Tatia Rosenthal and writer Etgar Keret.
