The Answer Man 2009

In 1988, the book ME AND GOD by Arlen Faber is published, quickly becoming a bestseller. This intriguing work comprises questions posed by the author alongside responses that are purportedly from God himself. These inquiries delve into profound topics such as “What am I here for?”, “Does prayer work?”, and “Where do dreams come from?”, earning global recognition and sparking a wave of related literature, including scientific explorations and cookbooks, that continues to influence writers even decades later.

Fast forward twenty years, as the 20th anniversary edition of ME AND GOD is set to launch. Terry Fraser (Nora Dunn), Arlen’s agent, meets with a journalist who wishes to conduct an exposé on Arlen, but she soon realizes that Arlen Faber (Jeff Daniels) is a recluse, having refused all interviews throughout his career.

As Arlen meditates at home, his tranquility is shattered by the doorbell, which instigates a frustrated tirade of profanities as he makes his way to the door. On the other side stands a Mailman ([Tony Hale]), who presents packages and a massive bag overflowing with fan mail. Although the Mailman is eager to meet the author, Arlen denies his identity and even signs a pseudonym on the delivery.

Amidst this, Elizabeth (Lauren Graham) prepares a health-conscious breakfast for her disinterested son Alex. After dropping him off at school, she indulges in rebellious behaviors like swapping classical melodies for rock and lighting a cigarette. Meanwhile, Kris Lucas (Lou Taylor Pucci), fresh out of rehab, reluctantly returns home, greeted only by his slumbering father on the couch. A chaotic scene unfolds at his bookstore when his employee Dahlia ([Kat Dennings]) dashes in, distressed about losing her keys, which has left the shop shuttered for a staggering 27 days.

After finishing some religious guidance books, Arlen decides he wants to dispose of them, leading him to Kris’s bookstore. However, Kris cannot purchase them due to financial constraints, prompting Arlen to attempt to donate the books, which Kris refuses as part of his recovery process. Frustrated, Arlen exits with the books, injuring his back in the process.

Following a series of unfortunate events, including a back injury sustained while listening to music, Arlen finds himself in Elizabeth’s chiropractic clinic, where she assists him in alleviating his pain. Over this two-hour session, sparks ignite between them, particularly when he finally sees Elizabeth clearly for the first time and feels drawn to her warmth. The interaction leaves Arlen buzzing, prompting him to return to the clinic, and he intentionally introduces himself with his full name, Arlen Faber. Although Elizabeth fails to recognize the significance immediately, her employee, Anne, does, which piques Elizabeth’s curiosity.

As Arlen continues to lead a reclusive life, he maneuvers around his growing fan base while simultaneously struggling with personal issues, often crossing paths with Kris. Their relationship evolves through philosophical questions and life lessons shared against the backdrop of Kris’s struggles with sobriety and a tense home life with his father.

The narrative shifts through moments laden with introspection, from Arlen’s unsuccessful attempts at spiritual encounters in a church to his awkward yet probing conversations with Elizabeth. As their connection deepens, secrets unfold, leading to tension when the truth about Arlen’s supposed divine communication comes to light.

Their paths intertwine via unexpected circumstances involving Kris, who seeks answers and advice, ultimately leading him and Arlen to redefine their relationship. Arlen realizes he must confront his fears and the protective walls he has built around himself and his heart, particularly as it pertains to Elizabeth and her son Alex.

Ultimately, as Arlen is forced to confront his true feelings and the realities of his existence, he discovers that vulnerability is key in allowing genuine connections to flourish. The culmination of these events sees Arlen stepping onto the stage for a book signing at Kris’s bookstore, leading to a moment of revelation where he admits he has never truly communicated with God. This moment tests his relationship with Elizabeth, culminating in an emotional exchange where he seeks a fresh start with her, signaling potential for new beginnings.

The film wraps up with a poignant note as Arlen and Elizabeth tentatively reintroduce themselves, suggesting that perhaps the simplest acts of connection can lead to profound understanding and love.