Inspired by James Thurber’s classic short story, the filmic adaptation of The Secret Life of Walter Mitty tells the charming tale of a man whose existence is mundane, but in possession of a richly embroidered imagination.

Ben Stiller (who both produces and directs) plays the central character, Walter.

Walter’s daily life revolves around his job as a Negative Assets Manager for a major magazine, Life, where he spends his time in a dark basement office reviewing photographic negatives—captured by daring photojournalists out in the field pursuing adventure.

Straight-laced and caring, Walter is confronted by the possibility of losing his job (and his purpose) as the magazine moves to online distribution, and he must reassess his own self-worth—all while proving he deserves his job to the snarky new managing director.

But Walter is often distracted. He frequently drifts away into series of intensely vivid daydream fantasies, which include chasing his attractive co-worker, Cheryl (Kristen Wiig), as well as locating a missing negative sent to him by the ultimate rock god of adventure (and photographer) Sean O’Connell (played by Sean Penn).

In real life, Walter has joined an online dating website with the hope of connecting with Cheryl (something easier done online than in person, given his shy nature), but he finds simply completing the profile questionnaire challenging (because he hasn’t really done anything exciting).

When a negative by star photographer O’Connell (intended for the magazine cover) goes missing, Walter finds he has a real excuse to connect with Cheryl, who agrees to help him track down Sean.

What happens next is a wonderful adventure, where this daydreamer must take on some real life risks in order to solve his problems and find what he has lost.

There is something truly beautiful about this film, and in particular the whimsical character of Walter. In an age of rampant egos and narcissism, this quiet achiever who takes the time to indulge his fantasies is alluring.

While the film never quite reaches the heights of excellence, it certainly offers a pleasant viewing experience with a welcome story and cast of characters.

Directed by: Ben Stiller

Starring: Ben Stiller, Kristen Wiig

Rating: PG

Runtime: 114mins

Release Date: out now

Reviewer rating: 3/5