John Krasinski says new movie 'The Hollars' has 'universal' family appeal

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- John Krasinski plays an out-of-town son who returns home to help support his mom after it's discovered she has a brain tumor.

Krasinski not only stars in "The Hollars," he's also one of the producers and the director. He shot the movie in 22 days.

"These little movies always need a bigger push, but the truth is I think this movie is so universal. I hope that people catch onto it, and they feel that 'hey there's something up there - that that family represents all of us,'" he said.

"Rolling Stone" put Margo Martindale, who plays the mother, on a pedestal for her performance, calling her one of the best actors on the planet. The magazine also noted Krasinski's family drama is "fiercely funny."

Martindale said the story is honest, full of humor and has moments of great emotion.

"I think it's very much like life, and I think it's very gracious," she said.

"The Hollars" deals with life and death, and a whole lot in between. There is laughter and there may be some tears, too. The movie hits theaters on Friday.