What’s it all about? Grumpy professor Walter (Six Feet Under’s Richard Jenkins) discovers his New York apartment has been sublet to a young immigrant couple without his permission. He reluctantly lets them stay while they get themselves together, and getting to know them ultimately changes his life.

What’s good? A charming, enlightening story of an unusual friendship, this is another exceptional drama from the director of indie gem The Station Agent. Handsome Haaz Sleiman is a real find as the chilled Syrian drummer Tarek – his smile is enough to make your day.

What’s bad? The film loses a bit of its edge when an unlikely romance comes into the picture.

new! verdict: A comedy about relationships that has bite and some bark.

****