Life as a House (2001)

In the heart of southern California, George Monroe (Kevin Kline), a solitary soul, resides in a dilapidated shack inherited from his father. Once a picturesque seaside dwelling, it now stands as an anachronism amidst a landscape dotted with opulent houses. George spends his days in a stale, loathed job at an architectural firm, crafting scale models for the past twenty years. Life takes a dramatic turn when he's fired, and on the same day, he's confronted with a terminal cancer diagnosis. This bitter revelation, however, brings about an unexpected sense of liberation. He chooses not to reveal his fate to his estranged family, instead deciding to savor his remaining days fulfilling a long-cherished dream - to build his own house, a symbol of permanence in his otherwise transitory life. In this pursuit, George summons his rebellious, teenage son, Sam Monroe (Hayden Christensen), hoping for more than his help in construction. He yearns to mend their fractured relationship, to fill the emotional chasm that separates them. Sam, however, caught in a whirlwind of adolescence, is more interested in experimenting with self-destructive vices than bonding with his father. His family, including his mother Robin Kimball (Dame Kristin Scott Thomas), her affluent but emotionally distant husband Peter Kimball (Jamey Sheridan), and their children, are mere spectators to his tumultuous teenage journey. In Sam, George sees a mirrored reflection of his past unhappiness, igniting a desire to guide his son away from a similar path. This summer of transformation might also be influenced by Alyssa Beck (Jena Malone), Sam's attractive classmate and George's neighbor. As George ventures into his ambitious project, he finds himself reconnecting with Robin, who confesses her past mistakes. Despite the blossoming bond, George is wary, his looming mortality casting a shadow over their rekindled relationship. With the clock ticking, George strives to accomplish his mission, to leave behind a legacy of love, reconciliation, and a house built with dreams. This poignant tale of life, love, and relationships explores one man's journey to find meaning and connection in his final days.

Life as a House is a drama movie featuring Kevin Kline and directed by Irwin Winkler.

Life as a House is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy.

It is also possible to buy Life as a House on Amazon Video, Apple TV, DIRECTV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store, Vudu and YouTube.