Conceptually, The Secret Life of Walter Mitty shouldn’t have done well. The story is based around a man who, half the movie, is in his own world daydreaming. In real life, he is a nobody who lives behind the scenes as an under-recognized photo developer for Life Magazine. If that doesn’t already seem like a total flop, Ben Stiller (Night at The Museum) both acts in and directs this movie.

But the movie is done so well that it beats all the odds against it, right down to the antagonistic and cliched office bully.

The flick combines the elements of whimsy, romance and humor, along with impressive cinematography and a great playlist from artists like Of Monsters and Men. The storyline itself and character development is detailed and gives just enough information for the viewer to come their own conclusion.

This movie was a breath of fresh air for moviegoers half-expecting to see a cheesy adventure film coupled with an unbearable script. The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is one of those rare instances where movie cliches just work.