After so many mediocre films rounded out the year, it is a shame that a film like Thomas McCarthy’s “The Visitor” didn’t get more attention.

“The Visitor” is a compelling social commentary about illegal immigrants and our country’s methods of dealing with the problem, which touches home for many.

It stars Richard Jenkins (most widely known by our generation as John C. Reilly’s dad in “Stepbrothers,”) as Walter Vale, a lonely college professor apathetically making his way through life after the death of his wife.

Vale’s life changes when he discovers a young, foreign couple living in his vacated apartment in New York City. He strikes up a friendship with the young, exuberant Tarek Kahlil (played exceptionally by Haaz Sleiman), who gives Vale a newfound interest in life.

Jenkins’ performance is subtle, yet moving, as we don’t really start to get to know him until Kahlil gets arrested and is found to be an illegal immigrant. Seeing Jenkins give up his comfortable lifestyle to help out Kahlil is striking. The awkward emotion Jenkins shows works perfectly for his character, leaving the audience to question his motives. We learn about him as the film goes on, but never truly know him.

Kahlil’s mother (played by Hiam Abbass) gives a gripping performance as a woman worrying about her son and being able to do nothing about his predicament.

It would have been a shame for Jenkins’ performance to get overlooked, but the Academy saw the beauty of his character as he was nominated for Best Actor at this year’s Academy Awards. He has already won four Best Actor awards at various award shows for “The Visitor.”

But what has been overlooked by award shows and the general public is the wonderfully told story of “The Visitor.” It moves methodically through the tale, keeping a strong pace.

“The Visitor” is one of the best films of 2008 and has been vastly overlooked while less deserving films take home the praise. Unlike the more well-known award contenders, “The Visitor” is already released on DVD. Do yourself a favor, rent “The Visitor” and see one of the truly underrated films in a long time.