Movie Review: Foster (2011)

A Touch of Magic in the Ordinary

Foster (also known in some regions as Angel in the House) is a heartwarming British dramedy that blends realism with just a hint of the fantastical. At its core, the film explores themes of loss, healing, and unexpected joy through the story of a couple struggling to move forward after a personal tragedy.

The film opens with Alec (Ioan Gruffudd) and Zooey (Toni Collette), a married couple navigating the emotional turbulence of infertility and grief. As they cautiously file paperwork to become foster parents, the last thing they expect is for a well-dressed, highly articulate seven-year-old boy named Eli (Maurice Cole) to appear at their door the very next morning—complete with official adoption papers, a briefcase, and an old-school top hat.

From the moment Eli walks in, the film shifts into a tone of gentle whimsy. Eli is no ordinary child—he speaks with the clarity and wisdom of someone far beyond his years, often leaving the adults around him puzzled, charmed, and sometimes slightly unsettled. Yet his arrival acts as a catalyst for change in Alec and Zooey’s lives, softening the hard edges of their sorrow and reintroducing laughter, chaos, and ultimately love into their quiet home.

Jonathan Newman, who wrote and directed the film, crafts the narrative with a simplicity that works in its favor. The plot avoids overcomplicating things, choosing instead to focus on the small, intimate moments that show the gradual evolution of this makeshift family. Newman’s screenplay strikes a balance between humor and emotional sincerity, never tipping too far into sentimentality but always managing to pull at the heartstrings.

Toni Collette, as always, brings emotional depth and nuance to her role. She perfectly captures the conflicting emotions of a woman torn between hope and fear, while Ioan Gruffudd brings an understated charm to Alec’s character. However, the real surprise is young Maurice Cole as Eli. His performance is captivating—never forced, always measured, and often scene-stealing.

Visually, the film maintains a warm and inviting aesthetic that mirrors the tone of the story. The London setting is cozy rather than overwhelming, helping to create the mood of a comfort movie—something you’d curl up with on a quiet evening.

Final Thoughts

Foster is a gentle, feel-good film that manages to be both touching and amusing without trying too hard. It’s a tale about healing, second chances, and the sometimes magical way life surprises us just when we need it most. While it may not be a blockbuster or packed with dramatic twists, its strength lies in its simplicity and emotional authenticity.

If you’re looking for a movie that’s uplifting, charming, and filled with warmth, Foster is definitely worth your time.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Mood: Comforting, Whimsical, Heartfelt