Film review: 'Hello, My Name is Doris"

Aside from its title, "Hello, My Name Is Doris," is a seriously cute comedy. Best of all, it stars the adorable Sally Field, whose comedic genius has been M.I.A. as of late. And it's a welcomed, triumphant return.

Field plays Doris, a sixty-something accountant who has a penchant for collecting. O.K., she's a hoarder who's lived her entire life with her mother on Staten Island. Her mother has just passed away, leaving a huge gap in Doris' lonely life. After being coaxed by her only friend, Roz (a wonderful Tyne Daly) to attend a "Lose the Fear" lecture, Doris is motivated to throw caution to the wind and redirect her life.

Enter John (Max Greenfeld), a new employee at the Manhattan office, in which Doris works. Although he's decades younger, she's smitten by his kind words and gestures. Misinterpreting his actions (as well as fantasizing), Doris is determined to hook up with John and is encouraged by Roz's 13-year-old granddaughter who is very computer savvy. With the assistance of Facebook, Doris "runs into" John at a rock concert, and the pursuit is on.

And as we can't help but sense the impending doom for Doris, it's difficult not liking John. He notices her, enjoys her company and is always kind. Doris is no longer invisible, a trait often assigned to aging women. Even when he discovers that Doris has been instrumental in his girlfriend leaving him, John handles it like a gentleman. 

Writer-director Michael Showalter has moved up a rung on the ladder since scripting "Wet Hot American Summer" in this charming crowd pleaser. And lots of credit goes to costume designer, Rebecca Gregg. Doris is what she wears. The donning of two pairs of glasses (in lieu of bifocals), hair held in place with huge bows and wild vintage clothing define Doris as much as her actions and emotions.

Field owns "Hello, My Name Is Doris," lock, stock and barrel. Her body language, facial expressions and a particular solo dance scene make for one unforgettable performance. If all the cackling going on in the theater is any indication of how the audience felt about it, a third Oscar may be in store for Sally Field.