This is a good film, but slow. Peter Falk's makeup is excellent, but D.B. Sweeney's is not; at times when he is supposed to be younger, he looks older than in later scenes when he is supposed to be older but looks younger than he does earlier...huh?I did not expect Beth to die, and IMO the movie hung on too long after that. I think it was about 1/2 hour overbaked.The main elements of the movie hang together. The writer did a good job of paying attention to his own work (sounds easy, but just try watching "Pushing Tin"). The film did a good job of presenting the value of family. Such loyalty is always welcome.This is, as I said, a good film.

There was times during "Roommates" when I was reminded of director Yates' 1979 film, "Breaking Away". That, like this movie, was a comedy/drama. But the real difference between the two is how the earlier production struck a believable, painfully human balance, and "Roommates" just barely achieves status quo. It's also somewhat uneven. Early on, it sets out to be a light comedy, with a bit of drama to ground it. This basic tone never shifts, but with the entire third act being so miserable, it's prevented from being convincing. There's no point where it's especially unlikable, just frustrating.The acting has something to offer, even though I've seen nearly everyone give better performances. Julianne Moore, Ellen Burstyn, Peter Falk - three of my favorites - aren't really offered enough to show their respective talents. Falk, even though he's the star of "Roommates", seems like an afterthought, a minor character who steps in to offer periodical clever quips. And I didn't find the makeup work to be particularly convincing.An overall problem comes down to the script. Although the film seems long enough, even too long at times, it feels truncated in order to fit in all the chronology. There are breaks of years, seven or five, or however many, and people don't seem to change or age normally. It's like watching a stage play when you know there's been no passage of time, and can't be properly convinced otherwise. "Roommates" is a film that doesn't really know what it is or what it wants to be. The VHS cover shows a scene from the film involving a garden hose. In the photograph, it looks playful. It the actual movie, it is part of a serious argument. That just about sums up the dichotomy that is "Roommates".

Roommates is one of my favorite movies. I have no idea why it was largely ignored by critics and the general public as well. The remarkable chemistry between Rocky and his grandson is just incredible. The story never fails to touch me - even after quite a few viewings!

I think I was about 14 or 15 when I saw this movie for the first time. I also think this was the last movie that actually brought me to tears. The story of Rocky and his grandson was just so touching. It struck a chord and reminded me of my relationship with my own grandfather. You can't help but love the old fart.By the time the movie was over I had felt as if these characters had really come to life, especially Rocky. I think that is what is so great about this movie. This crusty old man really grows on you and it's hard to let him go at the end.This movie is definitely worth renting if you get the chance. A great family movie as well.