Watch Adopt a Sailor

Adopt a Sailor is a heartwarming drama that tells the story of a young American sailor named Anthony (Ethan Peck) who finds himself stranded in Los Angeles for Christmas after his ship is delayed. Desperately seeking a place to stay for the holiday, he is taken in by a well-to-do couple, Patricia (Bebe Neuwirth) and Richard (Peter Coyote), who have volunteered to host sailors in their home through a program called "Adopt a Sailor."

As the couple welcomes Anthony into their home, the film explores the complex dynamic between the three characters, who come from vastly different backgrounds and have very different ways of approaching life. While Anthony is a brash and confident young man, used to the rough-and-tumble world of the Navy, Patricia and Richard are more reserved, intellectual types who feel uncomfortable with his straightforward manner.

Through a series of misunderstandings and clashes, the characters learn to see each other in a new light and come to appreciate the diversity that their differences bring to the table. Along the way, they grapple with issues of class, acceptance, and family, as they try to bridge the gap between their worlds and find a way to connect.

One of the most striking things about Adopt a Sailor is its use of setting and visuals to convey its themes. The film takes place almost entirely inside Patricia and Richard's luxurious Beverly Hills home, which becomes an almost dreamlike environment that isolates the characters from the outside world. The camera lingers on the opulent furnishings and holiday decorations, conveying the rich and complex environment that Anthony finds himself in.

At the same time, the film is shot in a muted and understated style that emphasizes the characters' inner worlds rather than the exterior trappings of their lives. This is especially true of the scenes between Anthony and Patricia, which take place in quiet moments of reflection as they try to come to terms with their differences.

The acting in the film is top-notch, with all three leads delivering nuanced and believable performances. Bebe Neuwirth in particular stands out as the tightly-wound and perfectionistic Patricia, who is struggling to find meaning in her life and marriage. Peter Coyote brings a sense of wisdom and warmth to his portrayal of Richard, who is more open-minded than his wife but still has his own prejudices to overcome. And Ethan Peck delivers an appealing performance as Anthony, capturing both his bravado and vulnerability.

One of the most memorable things about Adopt a Sailor is its exploration of the theme of family. Although none of the characters are related by blood, they find themselves forming a connection that is just as strong as any biological tie. In particular, Patricia and Anthony develop an almost maternal bond as she tries to guide him through the complexities of life outside the Navy. Through their interactions, the film suggests that family is not just about blood, but also about the shared experiences, values, and feelings that connect people.

Overall, Adopt a Sailor is a touching and engaging film that offers a timeless meditation on the power of family and the need for acceptance and understanding. It is a must-see for anyone interested in stories of human connection and the complexity of relationships.

Adopt a Sailor is a 2008 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 24 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.1.