The Movie That Inspired One of Tom Hanks’ Most Slept on Films Just Landed on Netflix

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I’ve always been a huge Tom Hanks fan – he’s just one of those actors everyone loves! With over 80 films and two Oscars, his talent is undeniable. I remember being captivated by him ever since Splash launched his career in the ’80s, and he’s been a constant presence in amazing movies like Forrest Gump and all the Toy Story films. But even a legend like Tom Hanks has some hidden gems. There’s a movie from a few years ago that didn’t get much attention, and I’m excited that Netflix is now streaming the film that actually inspired it!

Tom Hanks gave a standout performance in the 2022 film A Man Called Otto, playing a grumpy widower whose life changes when a cheerful family moves in next door. While A Man Called Otto isn’t currently available on Netflix, you can watch the original Swedish film that inspired it, A Man Called Ove. Released in 2012 and directed by Hannes Holm, A Man Called Ove became available on Netflix on March 6th. It stars Rolf Lassgård as a lonely, grieving retiree who unexpectedly connects with the lively new family next door.

A Man Called Ove Is a Top-Tier Tragicomedy

A Man Called Ove is a powerfully moving film that effortlessly blends humor and heartbreak. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, exploring themes of loss, grief, and even suicide, but ultimately offering a heartwarming story about finding joy again. Rolf Lassgård gives a brilliant performance as Ove, a man struggling with loneliness and finding new meaning in life after the death of his wife. Through unexpected connections with his neighbors, the film shows Ove rediscovering hope and embracing life, leaving viewers with a genuinely feel-good experience.

The film A Man Called Ove received Academy Award nominations for Best Foreign Language Film and Best Makeup and Hairstyling. It was also critically well-received, earning a “Certified Fresh” score of 91% on Rotten Tomatoes. The American remake also performed well, with a 70% critic score and a remarkable 97% audience rating. Critics agree the remake successfully captured the original’s blend of humor and emotion, and Tom Hanks’ performance is considered one of his finest. You can currently watch the remake on Hulu and HBO Max.

What’s New on Netflix?

Netflix added the popular film A Man Called Ove to its selection this month. Throughout March, subscribers have already gained access to a variety of movies, including Deepwater Horizon, The Lego Movie, Zombieland, and the first three Jurassic World films. More titles are coming soon, with Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale arriving on March 7th, Nobody 2 on March 14th, and almost all of the Saw movies becoming available on March 19th.

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2026-03-07 01:41