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An actor's review of SIDEWAYS
by A.J. (movies profile)
Apr 25, 2008
209
of
275 people found this review helpful
"We are going to send you off in style."
Director Alexander Payne has done it again! He has created a fantastic film driven by a fresh, witty script and some of the best performances of the year. It's no wonder why "Sideways" is one of the best critically-reviewed films of the year!
This was one of the funniest movies I've seen in a long time! I found myself laughing out loud many many times, only to do it again seconds later! Easily one of the best scripts of the year, and will most likely be remembered come Oscar time.
It's tough to classify this movie into any one genre. On one hand, it's a buddy movie. On the other, it contains some of the best situation comedy seen in recent cinema. But on yet ANOTHER hand, it's a poignantly told love story about 2 people who love has beaten up and beaten around, and are simply looking for just a little bit of peace and happiness.
The performances are Award-worthy all around!
Paul Giamatti makes it two in a row (last year's American Splendor) with another amazing lead performance. There is something special about him. You feel every emotion. You connect with every thought. In this film, Giamatti proves that he can carry a film, and carry it impressively.
Thomas Hayden Church gives a scene-stealing turn as Jack, the best friend and soon-to-be groom, looking for some quick loving before he gets hitched. His comedic timing makes for most of the movies' funniest moments, and his straightforward attitude with everything perfectly compliments Giamatti's down-turn character.
The supporting ladies are also fantastic, especially Virginia Madsen. Her scenes are beautifully done, with such deep emotion that every audience member feels it. She doesn't overact at all, but through very subtle expressions, movements, tones in her voice, her Mya comes to beautiful life.
As previously stated, the script is fantastically written. My only gripe was I thought it had just a bit too much unnecessary language. But besides that quip, this is one of the most original adaptations (how's that for a brain scratcher) to come to the screen since 2002's "Adaptation".
Alexander Payne. The man knows how to direct. His special flare for bringing out the best performances possible from his actors has never been more apparent, and I can't wait for his next film!
My Rating:
A-
***1/2 |
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