The picture is elevated by its handling of melancholy themes of ageing and loneliness, and a superb gruff-yet-vulnerable performance from Kingsley.

The real power in the film, however, besides the soothing layer of whimsy and Kingsley’s achingly vulnerable performance, is in the metaphorical implication of the title character.

This is a sentimental and folksy film, and the ending is a little garbled, but there is a gentleness and sweetness there, and Kingsley carries it off very well.

Though Jules explores relatable themes and the human race’s desire for connection, the film’s underdeveloped story makes the sci-fi drama forgettable.