Are You Here (2013)

Are You Here Poster

When Steve Dallas, a womanizing local weatherman, hears that his off-the-grid best friend Ben Baker has lost his estranged father, the two return to Ben's childhood home. Once there, they discover Ben has inherited the family fortune, and the ill-equipped duo must battle Ben's formidable sister and deal with his father's gorgeous 25-year old widow.

Intro
"Are You Here" is a 2013 American comedy-drama film directed and composed by Matthew Weiner. The film ensembles an impressive cast comprising Owen Wilson, Zach Galifianakis, and Amy Poehler.

Plot Summary
The film opens with Steve Dallas (Owen Wilson), a successful but self-involved weatherman in the local town, who leads an unfinished yet carefree life. His friend, Ben Baker (Zach Galifianakis), on the other hand, is an eccentric, off-the-grid male, living a secluded lifestyle on social help.

The plot takes a turn when Ben inherits his estranged father's fortune, including a large countryside estate, making him a multi-millionaire overnight. This unexpected windfall triggers Steve and Ben to return to their home town to claim the inheritance.

Dispute
However, complications arise when Angela Baker (Amy Poehler), Ben's ambitious and practical sis, contests the will, declaring that her sibling is mentally incompetent to manage such wealth. Angela believes Ben's newfound fortune will only feed his unstable character and damage him in the long run.

In addition, Steve discovers himself attracted to Angela, a subplot which heightens the tension and adds intricacy to the story.

Climax and Resolution
Steve, in spite of his self-serving nature, tries to help his friend retain his inheritance by convincing the court and Angela of Ben's sanity and capability to manage his fortune.

After much soul-searching and awareness, Ben decides to offer the estate and use the revenues to develop a utopian community. Steve, reassessing his life and relationship, ends up leaving his task and joins his pal Ben in this undertaking.

Conclusion
"Are You Here" delivers a poignant tale of friendship, self-discovery, and human connection. Regardless of the comical undertone, the film elaborately explores heavy themes such as existential crisis, mental health, material luxury, brother or sister rivalry, and dysfunctional friendships. It highlights an emotional journey carried out by the lead characters, requiring them to reassess their life trajectories and ultimately discover their particular functions.

The movie isn't fearlessly funny nor significantly extreme, but resonates with subtler tones encapsulated with deeper messages about life, relationships, and individual growth.

Top Cast