While You Were Sleeping: A Family Affair
Directed by Jon Turteltaub
“Lucy, you’re born into a family. You do not join them like you do the Marines.”
Jerry
While You Were Sleeping is a considerably underrated and underappreciated romantic comedy film. With endearing, well-developed characters, the movie possessed a heartening quality. Debuted in 1995, this ball of charm is directed by Jon Turteltaub. Set in Chicago, we follow the life of a lonely yet lovely token-collector for the Chicago Transit Authority, Lucy Moderatz. Moderatz places her life on the line one day for a handsome commuter whom she loves by the name of Peter Callaghan, after he is mugged and left on the train tracks on Christmas Day. Lucy ends up becoming an integral part of Peter’s life and family after a miscommunication at the hospital.
Though unbelieving, his brother, Jack Callaghan, is increasingly skeptical of Lucy. As Jack begins to pry, Lucy finds herself falling in love with him and the family that she is welcomed into. The charm of this film lies in its character building. Sandra Bullock played Lucy in an endearing fashion, with oversized sweaters and distinctive solemnity. Acting as her fake fiancé is Peter Gallagher who does a stellar job as the airhead brother that misses all that is in front of him for material things. Bill Pullman portrays the charming brother Jack and makes us believe in his love for Lucy. The family of supporting characters were also convincing as they were such a big proponent of the warm and lighthearted feeling fostered. The concept of family is so strong, and it is fortified with characters whose personal lives intertwined with the protagonists. Especially Jack Warden who acted as Peter’s Godfather, Saul, and a stand-in father figure for Lucy as he gave her advice.
Though some may view While you Were Sleeping as a Christmas film or simply another Romantic Comedy, it is more than that. It is a film about family and the necessity of community. From Lucy’s caring colleagues to her adoption into a new family – community matters.
The Island Cinephile 
