'Jules' inserts an extra-terrestrial into geriatrics

The two ways to look at "Jules" still leave it limping. The first way is to see it as a version of "E.T." for elders; the second way is to see it as a study in the cost of loneliness in senior citizens. Or a study in how no one listens to their elders. Or a study in what it takes to make friends when most of your friends can be classified as cranky pants.

Chief in that class is Milton Robinson, a citizen of a small western Pennsylvania town. This miser who pays in pennies has a few thoughts toward making his town smarter, which he pleads before the Boontown council. Maybe he thinks the crosswalks need improving because he has three jaywalking tickets. He definitely thinks the town's slogan could be less confusing. He cites his thoughts at the town meetings, but, significantly, at one, he also announces that a spaceship has crashed into his back yard, crushing his azaleas.

Joyce, a fellow citizen, takes her turn at the microphone to plead for pickle ball.

Ever the optimist, Sandy -- a nosy Parker -- comes to his house with her pep  talk. When she sees the alien in the azaleas, she does a spit take. Sandy's the one who names the alien Jules. The two women crowd into Milton's life. He, being a good host to both the alien and the women, finds himself with company for a change. The women chatter; the alien says not a word. Adding to the noise is Milton's daughter, played by Zoe Winters. Denise, the town veterinarian, is concerned about her father's mental health after finding a can of beans in the bathroom. 

Meanwhile, the National Security Satellite folks descend, having noted images of the crash. They, too, crowd Milton's door. Tension ensues.

But not interest. Gavin Steckler's script does not court cuteness. Marc Turtletaub's direction does not reflect his good work on "The Farewell," "Loving," or even "Little Miss Sunshine." What holds "Jules" together is the cast. Jade Quon from "The Hunger Games," plays the mute extra-terrestrial.

Jane Curtain, always dandy, brings her comedic timing -- and her Angora cat -- to the role of Joyce. Ben Kingsley -- yes, Gandhi! -- plays Milton dependably, predictably. The one to watch in this troika is Harriet Sansom Harris, who excels as Sandy. She's known by face as a character actor in films such as "Licorice Pizza" and "Phantom Threads," and television shows such as "Hacks" and "American Horror Story." 

Bottom line, though, "Jules" limps to the end with little news about loneliness. Just cue the violins.