Kevin Kline, Hayden Christensen, Jena Malone, Kristin Scott Thomas, Mary Steenburgen ...( see more  see more... ) , Ian Somerhalder

When a man is diagnosed with terminal cancer, he takes custody of his misanthropic teenage son, for whom quality time means getting high, engaging in small-time prostitution, and avoiding his father.

Flixster Users

89% liked it

51,932 ratings

Critics

46% liked it

102 critics

R, 2 hr. 4 min.

Directed by: Irwin Winkler

Release Date: October 26, 2001

Invite friends to see

DVD Release Date: March 26, 2002

Stats: 3,716 reviews

Your Rating



clear rating

Flixster Reviews (3,716)


  • December 6, 2009
    Everything happens for a reason.
  • November 30, 2009
    strange but compelling at times
  • December 1, 2008
    I really wanted to like this movie. The characters were too wooden to construct a proper, emotional drama.
  • June 26, 2008
    Christensen and Kline have a wonderful chemistry. And although it lacked originality, it's a fine film.
  • May 27, 2008
    I cried, yeah I admit it...fired from his job as a fabricator of architectural models and diagnosed with terminal cancer George Monroe (Kevin Kline) enlists the help of his reluctant and rebellious son Sam, played by Hayden Christensen, to demolish the shack that George inherite...( read more)d from his abusive father and build an elegant home in its place...

    During this experience, George reconnects with his son and his divorced wife Robin, played by Kristin Scott Thomas. The process of building the house is eye opening for both George and Sam. Sam in particular changes from a rebellious drug abusing teen into something more closely resembling his father. This is evident in the final sequence, in which Sam gives the house to a woman disabled by a car accident caused by George's father while driving under the influence...very touching...
  • February 1, 2010
    By far Christensen best film. The chemistry between Hayden and Kline was undeniable which was necessary as the film was focused on the two of them. The rest of the supporting cast was a great addition to a strong story. Everything meshed well in this film. It was sad, powerful an...( read more)d a life lesson in itself. Definitely something to look for. Everything happens for a reason
  • January 30, 2010
    Last Viewed: 29/01/2010
  • January 23, 2010
    My favorite movie of all time! Great cast and story.
  • January 18, 2010
    En todo momento de la vida, uno siempre hace un mal paso, a veces tratamos de escapar de ese destino, pero al final siempre nos daremos cuenta que es mejor reparar el daņo, vivir cada dia como si fuera el ultimo es saber hacer el bien y saber ayudar, me gusta mucho la pelicula es...( read more) muy bella, nunca es tarde siempre hay esperanzas.
  • January 3, 2010
    A must see movie.. Full of life and love and the never ending quest of giving of ones self.

Critic Reviews


October 29, 2001
Peter Travers, Rolling Stone

Sadly, Christensen is the only jolt of excitement in this turgid soap opera. full review

October 26, 2001
Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times

Has much heart and not enough brain. full review

October 26, 2001
Stephanie Zacharek, Salon.com

For a movie that's all about embracing life wholeheartedly, Life as a House sure does a good job of keeping its actors in check. full review

October 25, 2001
Steven Rea, Philadelphia Inquirer

Elevated beyond its cutesy contrivances and mawkishness by some extraordinarily good performances. full review

View more Life as a House reviews at RottenTomatoes.com

Comments


  • claudyetta
    July 23, 2008
    I've loved this film...i think taht actors are great and the story is beautiful...
  • SnugglingBunny
    May 18, 2008
    This film has a great deal of heart, the whole feel given from the film is indescribable, you just have to see it yourself.
    The music score is perfectly fitted in this film, as a matter of fact, I own the soundtrack myself.
    Amazing relationship and performance between Sam and George (Kline and Christensen). Although I disagree when individuals make negative comments on Hayden Christensen's acting in the Star Wars prequels, this film is sure to change your mind.
    If you're looking for a good cry, this is surely the film to see.
  • angelbear211
    September 3, 2007
    I really liked this movie. It was amazing,engouh said. All I want to know is why the main older character, George, gave his house to somebody? who was it?I'm really confused!
  • katgirlkany
    July 3, 2007
    wow i seriously want to see this because of the reviews
    it looks as though its a nice movie
  • xXxHarleyxQuinnxXx
    June 2, 2007
    YOU R EDWARD! SAM! some body make twilight (best book ever) into a movie and cast this guy as edward! and me as bella tee hee.

Critic ratings and reviews powered by RottenTomatoes.com

Fresh (60% or more critics rated the movie positively)

Rotten (59% or fewer critics rated the movie positively)

Official Trailer

More Like This


Click a thumb to vote on that suggestion, or add your own suggestions.

  • A Walk to Remember
    A Walk to Remember (52%)
  • The Notebook
    The Notebook (59%)
  • American Beauty
    American Beauty (100%)
  • On Golden Pond
    On Golden Pond (100%)

Facts


No facts approved yet. Be the first

Life as a House : Watch Free on TV


Life as a House Trivia


  • What movie is this quote from: "I think there has to be a door between where you cook and where you crap. Even in the bush - tribal people, you know, they have a place for both. Probably it's like a law. God! It's probably in the Bible. It's at least a building code violation."  Answer »
  • In what movie was Hayden Christensen a neo/goth, lived with his dad on a cliff for the summer and prostituted himself?  Answer »
  • ***What Does George Say That He Almost Saw After Jumping Into The Ocean In Life As A House***  Answer »
  • in what movie did kevin cline get cancer and build a house?   Answer »

Recent News


No recent headlines. Got one?

Most Popular Skin