The Royal Tenenbaums (2001)

This film suprised me. Alot. But in a good way. Gene Hackman stars as Royal Tenenbaum, who splits from his wife and becomes estranged to his children Chas (Ben Stiller), Richie (Luke Wilson) and Margot (Gwyneth Paltrow). Richie used to be a pro tennis player, but suffered a break down on the court and now lives on a boat. Margot used to write plays (And was even given a $50,000 grant for a play she wrote in 9th grade) but now she is isolated from the world with her husband Rayleigh St. Clair (Bill Murray). Chas now has two children, and is very over protective of them since the death of their mother in a plane crash. Royal is depressed, and wants to get this family back together. However, after the damage he has done, none of them are willing to take him back. So,he fakes having stomach cancer so he can move back in. This film is just absolutely wonderful, with great performances from Gene Hackman, Gwyneth Paltrow and Owen Wilson, who plays Eli Cash, Richie's best friend. But, the best thing about the film, is the character of Rayleigh St. Clair, played brilliantly by Bill Murray. In fact, the story of him and his friend/test subject Dudley is the best thing about the film, in my opinion. Overall, a great comedy-drama that everyone should see. 5 Stars.