For me, during troubled times, there is nothing like a good movie to transport me away from the woes of the world. Of course, there are “message movies” and serious cinema, like Gandhi, that inspire us to do more or remind us of past injustices. But on most weekends, I’m happy with a good escapist movie that allows me to laugh and feel passion. Throw in a little action and I am in hog heaven!

Ira and Abby is such a movie.

It’s a fun Woody Allen-type romantic comedy that doesn't insult our intellect while providing great entertainment. Too often, gems like Ira and Abby get lost in the torrent of Fall releases, a tragic fate that will hopefully not fall on this movie. The young lovers in the film are played by Chris Messina and Jennifer Westfeldt and backed brilliantly by veterans Robert Klein and Judith Light. While the story is not that unique, Robert Cary's direction gives it an honest vitality that allows the viewer to actually like and care for the main characters.

What is especially wonderful about this film is to see Judith Light, a celebrated television and stage actress, in a feature film role worthy of her acting ability. The Emmy-nominated actress continues to show her amazing range on such shows as Ugly Betty and Law and Order: SUV.

However, her latest triumph is in Ira and Abby. The moment she is on the screen we are riveted to her. She reminds me of past screen legends who could easily go from comedy to tragedy and handle both with skill and talent. It is baffling to me that it has taken so long to bring this actress to the silver screen, but here she is at last.

Take some time and get some popcorn and enjoy yourself by watching this small independent gem of a movie.