Grade: A-

In “The Soloist” Robert Downey Jr. plays Los Angeles Times columnist Steve Lopez.  This is a true story based on columns that Lopez wrote about his experience with a homeless man, Nathaniel Anthony Ayers.  The two meet when Lopez follows beautiful violin music in the streets and finds Ayers playing the instrument with just 2 strings.  He finds out that Ayers attended Juliarrd, and becomes intrigued with how this talented musician ended up living this sad lifestyle.  Despite Ayer’s mental illness, and Lopez’s commitment issues, the two develop an awkward friendship, and grow as a result.  Catherine Keener plays Lopez’s boss and ex-wife.  Well done.