Tom Hanks is still a busy and popular actor. In a remake of the best-selling Swedish adaptation of “A Man Called Ove,” titled “A Man Called Otto,” the star plays a bitter widow. Now on WOW with a streaming subscription.
“A Man Called Otto” – an American remake of the Swedish hit “A Man Called Ove” – showed surprising staying power in German cinemas. Even with the film already available to watch on Netflix, six months after its theatrical release, the drama has disappeared across German screens from time to time. More than 453,000 cinema tickets were bought in this country – worldwide, the remake of “World War Z” director Marc Forster managed a very respectable box office result of 113 million dollars.
“A Man Called Otto” can no longer be found in the portfolio of streaming giant Netflix. However, if you look at the competing media library from WOW (formerly Sky Ticket), you can stream the title here from today, November 7, 2024:
And that’s what “A Man Called Otto” is all about.
Otto (Tom Hanks) is average. He keeps a close eye on his neighborhood and also has very clear rules about how things should be run here. Anyone who violates this, they will quickly deal with the opinion pensioner. But Otto was not always like this - it was only after the death of his beloved wife that he lost all joy in life. He didn’t get over her – and so, after years of loneliness, he decides it’s time to go.
But suicide must be done in peace – and that is not possible since the chaotic family moved into the other side. Marisol (Mariana Treviño) and Tommy (the star of “The Lincoln Lawyer” Manuel Garcia-Rulfo) and their two daughters destroy the life of the pensioner. Will they still be able to break the tough nut and part of his old will bring Otto back to live?
Better than the original!
For us, “A Man Called Otto” is one of those movies where the remake not only manages to get new features from the original (in this case “A Man Called Ove”), but ends up improving it even more to surpass.. And that, according to author Gaby Sikorski, who gave the new edition 4 out of 5 possible stars in the official FILMSTARTS review, mainly because of this someone who plays great Tom Hanksrated “to die for” in our review.
„So why adapt a US film on the subject? In this case the answer is: because of Tom Hanks! ‘A Man Called Otto’ is his film, he puts his stamp on it and refines it. Above all, he gives the terrible Grantler a depth and intensity that Rolf Lassgård (unfortunately) lacks. “Tom Hanks is the ideal incarnation of the spiteful crook in a great acting performance - the next in an endless chain.”
* This link is a so-called affiliate link. If you make a purchase through this link or receive a donation, we will receive a commission. This has no effect on the price.
Interview: The Enduring Appeal of Tom Hanks and “A Man Called Otto”
Time.news Editor: Welcome to our interview today! We have the pleasure of speaking with film expert Dr. Lisa Thompson, who specializes in contemporary cinema. Lisa, thank you for joining us!
Dr. Lisa Thompson: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s dive right into the topic at hand—Tom Hanks and his latest film, “A Man Called Otto.” Despite the film being available on streaming platforms like Netflix, it continues to draw audiences in theaters. What do you think accounts for its surprising staying power in German cinemas?
Dr. Thompson: Well, it’s quite fascinating! First, Tom Hanks is a beloved figure, and his presence in a film often guarantees a certain level of interest. “A Man Called Otto” has a compelling story that resonates deeply with audiences, particularly in the way it confronts themes of grief and loneliness. The emotional depth of Hanks’ character, dealing with the loss of his wife, speaks to many people, and that’s likely why it continues to attract viewers back to theaters.
Editor: Absolutely! Hanks plays a character named Otto who seems to be a reflection of loneliness and bitterness. How does this character differ from Hanks’ usual roles?
Dr. Thompson: That’s an interesting point. Hanks is often known for his affable, everyman characters—think of roles in “Forrest Gump” or “Saving Private Ryan.” Otto is more complex and darker; he’s hardened by loss and struggles with his purpose in life after his wife’s death. This role allows Hanks to explore more nuanced emotions, showcasing his versatility as an actor.
Editor: You mentioned the themes of the film. In your view, how do they connect with audiences today, especially given the ongoing conversations around mental health and community?
Dr. Thompson: The themes in “A Man Called Otto” are incredibly relevant. As society grapples with issues of isolation—exacerbated by the pandemic—Otto’s journey from despair to reconnection emphasizes the importance of community. His character’s evolution showcases how relationships can reignite joy and purpose in even the most desolate circumstances. This message resonates strongly as more people seek connections in a world that often feels disconnected.
Editor: It’s refreshing to have that kind of dialogue through film. With the shift in platforms, we now see “A Man Called Otto” available for streaming on WOW. Do you think that availability impacts how films are consumed and discussed?
Dr. Thompson: It certainly does. With streaming services dominating, the way audiences engage with films has changed significantly. While the instant availability can lead to a film’s popularity waning quickly, certain films, like “A Man Called Otto,” can still thrive. Viewers may prefer community experiences like watching in theaters first, and then they continue the conversation through streaming. It allows films with deeper narratives to find their audience over time.
Editor: That’s a great perspective. what do you think the future holds for films that are adaptations of foreign successes, like “A Man Called Ove?”
Dr. Thompson: Adaptations can be a double-edged sword. They can introduce powerful stories to wider audiences but also risk losing the essence of the original work. The success of “A Man Called Otto” suggests that quality storytelling can transcend cultural boundaries. If filmmakers remain faithful to the core themes and emotional journeys while adapting, there’s a bright future for such films in the industry.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Thompson, for sharing your insights today! The story of Otto and the brilliance of Tom Hanks continue to inspire thoughtful discussions.
Dr. Thompson: Thank you! It was great to share, and I’m excited to see how audiences continue to engage with films that challenge and resonate with them.