With dry wit and charm, John Cusak is practically impossible not to like in Martian Child. Even though the film teeters on melodrama occasionally, director Menno Meyjes never crosses the line. At least not by much. John Cusak plays David Gordon, a widower who also happens to be a best-selling science fiction author. Thus when the opportunity to adopt a shy, awkward boy named Dennis (Bobby Coleman) who claims to be a voyager from Mars, he just can’t resist. Slowly working the boy out of his shell, David empathizes and attempts to understand Dennis’ beliefs.

Right along for the ride is Liz (Joan Cusak), Gordon’s sister, who alternately attempts to dissuade her brother for taking on the responsibility of being a parent to Dennis. Amanda Peet turns in a nice performance as Harlee, the optimistic sister of David’s departed wife Mary. Possibly the only misstep is the mild romantic subplot between Harlee and David. Since she is the sister of his dead wife, it does seem a little forced that the two will fall in love to consol each other in their shared grief. Harlee even occasionally shares the parenting duties with David in an attempt to provide a mother figure for Dennis.

Yes this movie is predictable and follows the typical formulaic outline of sentimental movies, but each actor does more than fit the caricature of what these types of movies are. They must have a sweet, weird and unconventional child and the adoptive parent must navigate the fine line between indulging and destroying the soul of the child.

Cynics be warned, you will probably despise this movie. For everyone else, just sit back and enjoy this classically lovable and entertaining movie.

2 stars, PG