Julian Po

REVIEW
Slater is Julian Po, a contemplative bookkeeper who has a profound effect on the residents of a small town he enters. Since everyone suspects this stranger of evil, they are all relieved when Julian announces that he has come to town to kill himself. Almost immediately, he is revered as a prophet, often repeating the phrase "Life is short" to the various citizens who seek his counsel. Rewarded with free meals, clothes, and even a gun to do the deed, Julian is skeptical of his newfound celebrity. He just wants peace, quiet, and the love of Sarah (Tunney), a pretty local girl. Writer-director Wade has crafted an innocuous and unassuming fable, but it is remarkably passionless. There are few surprises in this muted, slow-moving drama, and it is hard to care about the ironic or tragic results of Julian's visit.