Joshua James at 2011-06-10 09:54:36:

If I recall, the screenwriter actually had himself put on an island for a couple days, and was driven to talking to a ball of some sort (or something inanimate) which led to the creation of Wilson ...

Dan Rappazzo at 2011-06-10 10:06:27:

The best one I can think of is from the French film "Rubber", I would love to hear your thoughts on this one Scott. Its about a tire that becomes self aware and goes on a rampage in the American Southwest.
I was impressed with how much emotion they were able to have the tire portray, especially without the use of CGI.
It is also a great commentary on the expectations of audiences and waht they want from watching a film.
One of the more original films I have seen in a while, not for everyone though given its bizarre nature.

Courtney at 2011-06-10 11:46:03:

Lars and the Real Girl - 2007

An awkwardly shy young man brings home the girl of his dreams to his brother and sister-in-law's home. The only problem is that she's not real... she's a sex doll Lars ordered off the Internet.

amyp3 at 2011-06-10 15:27:05:

I'm sure I'll think of more examples later but just wanted to comment on the Wilson drifting away scene.
It's so heartbreaking, and also makes me a little uneasy because you realize how close this guy was to perhaps losing it. Because he's crying over a VOLLEYBALL. And yet at the same time you totally relate to his loss.
Yep, good writing. (And acting.)

Teddy Pasternak at 2011-06-10 17:40:38:

Regarding Cast Away, and please correct me if I'm wrong, it's been a while since I watched this, but isn't this moment the first time in the movie where Chuck actually cries and lets out his emotions?

It's like he's been trying to stay positive and steadfast in order to survive on the island and here he's crying not only for the loss of Wilson but also for the loss of his home for the past four years, his utter desperation of being stranded there in the first place, the loss of his friends and wife, the uncertainty of the future -- all the emotions that has accumulated come pouring out at once.

Wilson was not only his friend but in this scene he symbolizes the hope Chuck carried with him just like the picture of his wife did throughout the film. Also, it seems to me he's not just saying "I'm sorry" to Wilson. There's some nice subtext there.

The scene following Wilson's departure has Chuck letting go of the oars and leaving it up to fate what happens to him.