Beginning writers are told to write about what they know. Perhaps that’s why director/writer Jordan Roberts’ new film Around the Bend is so touching. The story, based on Roberts’ own estrangement from a daughter, concerns four out-of-touch generations who experience a journey that clears up secrets of their past.

Michael Caine brings more of his fine talent to his role as Henry, Jason’s (Josh Lucas) ailing grandfather. Caine admits that he bores easily, and he refuses more films these days than he takes on. His character in Around the Bend certainly emerges as anything but boring. Caine makes easy work of the amusing grandfather. “I like to come out of a different box every time, and Henry is that,” he said. “It makes me want to get up in the morning.”

Henry knows his time is short, and he makes good use of what’s left when he takes his adorable great-grandson, Zach (Jonah Bobo), to the local KFC to plan out his remaining wishes. Bobo makes his film debut in this movie, but it will be far from his last. His loveable smile lights up every scene he’s in -- and the kid can act, too.

Jason appears up to his ears trying to pacify Henry, take care of Zach and find a little space of his own. That challenge gets even more complicated when Jason’s dad, Turner (Christopher Walken) shows up after 30 years. To Jason, his father’s life as a criminal, convict and other assorted careers doesn’t make a good enough excuse for why he abandoned him as a child.

When Henry dies, Jason, Turner and Zach take off a on a road trip to comply with Henry’s wishes that his ashes be spread across several different states. The three men learn more than just which the way the wind blows. While the story is not a cliché bonding movie and is intriguing on its own, the real power in this film comes from the characters and the terrific cast portraying them.  

Josh Lucas is quickly expanding his repertoire. He’s played a drug dealer, a romantic and a researcher. Here, as Jason he must find tolerance for a father he does not know while mourning the loss of a man who was more of a father to him, and at the same time allow his son to get to know his grandfather.

Mention Christopher Walken to anyone and the comments are always the same, “I love Christopher Walken!” He’s the consummate actor who can take a five-minute role and create memories of a lifetime. While his more recent roles (Man on Fire, Stepford Wives) have only teased us with his greatness, Around the Bend offers the full Walken. He’s enigmatic yet comprehensible, poignant yet joyous, angry yet guarded, and once again he dazzles us with a few dance steps when he teaches Zach how to let loose. He also makes light of his past thefts. “Sometimes a thing wants to be stolen,” he explains when they snatch a dog from an abusive owner.

Why see Around the Bend? Because a movie that blends comedy with drama and heart is always a winner. Still, I think the best reasons are the four men in this film.

(Released by Warner Independent Pictures and rated “R” for language.)