K-PAX

July 27th is just about here. 5:51 AM EST. This is when Prot will depart earth to return to K-PAX, his planet in the Lira System. Iain Softley has had a diverse approach to what he chooses to direct from BACKBEAT to THE WINGS OF THE DOVE and I've always enjoyed his work but I don't imagine he can make a finer film than K-PAX. Other than some minor variations and the omission of a small character this is a faithful adaptation of the Gene Brewer novel which is well worth taking the time to read. Kevin Spacey turns in yet another stellar performance and is well paired here with Jeff Bridges. This spirited and touching story of a man who ends up in a psych ward and may happen to be from another planet is full of wonderful twist and finely crafted subplots which allows for some fine character actors to do their thing, most notably David Patrick Kelly as Howie who does some of the best work of his career here. Still, what makes K-PAX stand out is Softley's directing touch. His use of light and architecture here is utterly amazing as well as being integral to the overall plot. The ending may may confuse and depress some but it will most certainly leave you wondering. July 27th, 5:51 AM EST, be there!