Told with the ramshackle energy of a first feature (but with a depth that hints at many more to come), Hart’s debut blossoms into a lovingly realized story of grief, getting by, and finding help in unexpected places.

Ms. Rabe’s beautifully balanced performance reminds you that people never really grow up.

Rabe’s performance here is nothing short of stunning.

Though its heart beats with the same blood as something like "Lost in Translation," in which a daunting age gap inspires lasting platonic chemistry between two drifting souls, Miss Stevens feels fresh in its take on human vulnerability.

Miss Stevens bears a maturity and genuineness that thankfully feels miles apart from the inspirational assembly line of Hollywood product.