Bobby Long (Travolta) and protege Lawson Pines (Macht) are alcoholic literary has-beens who escape a shady past by relocating to a notorious singer's house in New Orleans. When the singer dies, her 18-year-old daughter (Johansson) shows up to claim the house, but must share it with the shabby twosome. Heartwarming misunderstandings and bonding moments ensue. Very over-the-top story actually manages to charm, saved by the relaxed performances of talented cast. Neither Travolta nor Johansson ever master a believable southern accent, yet for some odd reason it doesn't seem to matter. And Travolta gets to sing again.