Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, the emotional drama film adapted from author Jonathon Safran Foer’s novel, explores the mind, feelings, and journey of a sensitive young boy who lost his father on September 11.

Breakout actor Thomas Horn plays Oskar Schell, a narrator overflowing with intelligence and wild thoughts who admits that he was tested for Asperger’s syndrome. The film follows a journey of emotional loss and unusual grieving as Oskar searches for answers, hoping to bring himself closer to his deceased father (Tom Hanks; Forrest Gump, Saving Private Ryan) who died on what Oskar childishly yet fittingly calls “the worst day”.

Receiving mixed reviews from critics, this film is definitely not displayed in black and white, as Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close ventures into a baffling grey area of a familiar and painful memory many Americans possess about September 11, 2001. Director Stephen Daldry (Forrest Gump, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button) and writer Eric Ross portray the day itself chillingly accurate, which makes this film all the more real as it literally brings viewers into the storyline.

Viewers must prepare themselves to observe the world in the eyes of a confused, yet astounding child. This might be an obstacle for some people who do not have the motivation to do so, therefore have a biased stance of the movie, or for those who are unable to put themselves into the perspective of such a different protagonist. Oskar seemingly has trouble with relationships, which is painfully difficult to watch at moments especially regarding his mother (Sandra Bullock; The Proposal, The Blind Side). A supporting yet fulfilling character in the film is played by Max von Sydow, who was nominated for an Academy Award for his indescribable performance.

 Although Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close depicts a sullen day in American history, it is, nevertheless, flooded with joyful moments, guaranteed to crack a smile across your teary cheeks. This film takes “smile at a stranger” to a whole new level, fully embraced by young Oskar.

Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, deserving four out of five stars, is undoubtedly a tear jerker, but it is also a must see for movie-goers who crave drama and realistic movies about humanity and the problems we face on a daily basis. And if the emotion gets to be too much for you to handle, you have the option of popping in and watching Beauty and the Beast in 3D to lift your spirits.