Here's to Life!

Screenwriter Arne Olsen makes his directorial debut in this comedy that explores the real meaning of youth and age. Owen Rinard (Eric McCormack) is the thirty-something manager of a Canadian retirement home who watches over his charges with an eagle eye and has a strong belief in rules and regulations. However, Gus Corley (James Whitmore), one of the residents at the home, isn't especially enthusiastic about Owen's iron rule, and wants to go on a fishing trip to Victoria, British Columbia. Owen has no interest in organizing outings for the patients, but when Gus, a former accountant, learns a few secrets about the current state of the books at the home, he makes Owen an offer he can't turn down -- either escort him and his friends Duncan (Ossie Davis) and Nelly (Kim Hunter) to Victoria for a vacation, or he'll tell the authorities about the irregularities in the accounts. Soon a very wary Owen is on the road with Gus, Duncan, and Nelly, and the younger man learns a few important lessons from his elders about the joy of living. Here's to Life was nominated for seven Genie awards -- the Canadian Oscar -- including Best Actor and Best Actress nominations for James Whitmore and Kim Hunter.~ Mark Deming, All Movie Guide