Walter Black, played by Mel Gibson, is the CEO of a toy company that is on the brink of extinction. Walter is so depressed that he is unable to leave his bed, and his wife Meredith, played by Jodi Foster, eventually throws him out. The couple has two sons who respond differently to having their mentally ill Dad suffering at home.
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After some dark episodes whilst living in a hotel, including attempted suicides, Walter begins to get his groove back. How does he do this? He starts to communicate by using a puppet - yes, a beaver. This beaver becomes pretty popular, the pair even make an appearance on The Today Show. Walter obviously must lose the puppet at some point, if he is to reconnect with his family.
Best part of story, including ending:
The way out idea that letting a beaver puppet speak for you could bring you out of a depression appealed to me.
Best scene in story:
The creepy scene when Walter calls Meredith only to find that the beaver really does not want him to. It shows how a break from reality can seem more than real to the person experiencing it.
Opinion about the main character:
I like that Walter keeps going, that he doesn't give in to his demons. It is admirable.