Inspired by the story of Alan Bennett, a smart playwright, who makes a friendship with an old woman from uncertain origins, who lives in her van and parks on his driveway.
You leave "Lady in the Van" entertained but troubled; it's an agreeably but oddly off-balance film, juggling and nearly dropping the star turn at its center.
It's guided by a masterful performer with the unwavering support of a spot-on cast that, like those in the best of Bennett's plays, are all on the same page.
The Lady in the Van might be preaching, one guesses, about behaving kindly and without judgment toward strangers. The highs and lows that shape it, however, feel unearned.
Smith is splendid here -- her whole demeanor is testament to the resilience and toughness of a woman determined to survive, be it through old age or nuclear disaster.
It may be more anecdotal than epic, but Lady in the Van should be welcomed for giving Smith an opportunity to add another memorable character to an already substantial portfolio.