Amazon.com

With Sideways, Paul Giamatti (American Splendor, Storytelling) has become an unlikely but engaging romantic lead. Struggling novelist and wine connoisseur Miles (Giamatti) takes his best friend Jack (Thomas Haden Church, Wings) on a wine-tasting tour of California vineyards for a kind of extended bachelor party. Almost immediately, Jack's insatiable need to sow some wild oats before his marriage leads them into double-dates with a rambunctious wine pourer (Sandra Oh, Under the Tuscan Sun) and a recently divorced waitress (Virginia Madsen, The Hot Spot)--and Miles discovers a little hope that he hasn't let himself feel in a long time. Sideways is a modest but finely tuned film; with gentle compassion, it explores the failures, struggles, and lowered expectations of mid-life. Giamatti makes regret and self-loathing sympathetic, almost sweet. From the director of Election and About Schmidt. --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Reviews (305)

Loved it
This movie was sooooo good. All I can say is I loved it I loved it

delicious little movie
The risk involved in describing "Sideways" as a road movie about obsessive wine tasting is that people who are not wine buffs/connoisseurs are likely to stay away from it, which would be a pity. So let me discuss it from a different perspective: Sideways is in fact a buddy movie, and not an overly comic one. Granted, there is a fair share of funny scenes but overall the tone of the movie veers clearly toward the dramatic.
Meet Miles and Jack. The former is a small-time english teacher (and aspiring novelist...too bad his aspirations are constantly frustrated), the latter is a washed-up tv actor with a career that after a promising start never really took off. Both are middle-aged guys who are coping with lowered expectations and shattered ambitions.
Jack is about to marry (although he feels uneasy about his marital future) and the two friends embark on a wine-tasting extended bachelor party that eventually feels much like a coming of age story.
There is a lot of wine talking going on throughout the movie but wine isn't the whole point. Wine is more like a metaphor for life and there is a brilliant dialogue between Miles and Maya (the girl he falls in love with) that clearly shows this point.
This is not a happy-ending movie. There's a lot of stark realism in it and although the finale leaves some hope for Miles, it's quite obvious that this is LIFE, not some fairy tale.
This is no educational movie either. There are scenes where "getting sideways", far from being frowned upon, is elevated to something very romantic or, at least, something that lets us understand Miles' deep suffering, forcing us to be sympathetic to his condition.
Anyway, enough with the social commentary, I greatly appreciated this movie and I think that anybody with a passing interest in non-mainstream stuff should see it.

Will This Film EVER End!
A slice of life? A road movie?To be a slice of life the lives should be interesting.To be a road movie interesting things should happen en route.Aside from a lengthy plug for the California Wine industry, the whole movie struck me as tedious.There are some amusing moments and dialogue tucked between a lot of mundane, unfunny and often depressing conversation and events.The lead character steals from his mother and despite his affection for wine in the abstract, drinks to deal with depression by getting sloppy drunk.Meanwhile his buddy shows such respect for the woman he's driving north to marry that he's willing to bed anything with a pulse between Los Angeles and the Napa Valley.And we're supposed to care about these people?Why the movie industry is so high on this film beats me.After watching it carefully twice, trying to find some overlooked redeeming quality, I just don't see it.Possibly I'm not sophisticated enough to enjoy it.Possibly it's not that great a movie.

It may have some appeal to the wine connoisseur or wanna'be who's always wanted to impress his friends by saying things like, "It's a sassy little pinot that perfectly complements ze flavour of ze Ritz Crackers and ze Cheeez Whiz." but I found myself wishing it was a much shorter movie.I certainly won't recommend it to anyone I like or remember it 6 months from now ... probably less.

A Cineaste's Dream
I won't rehash the plot, the characters, etc., as that's all so familiar by now.Why is this film a small wonder?Because it's what happens in the interstices, between the minimal action and the raucous laughs.Like the characters or not, they are painfully real, and we get so few real characters in movies today.We get so few honestly-motivated characters today.And the reason:one has only to peruse the one-star reviews on this site.Has anyone noticed that the one-star reviews are generally very short, as if the attention span of the denouncer couldn't sustain a paragraph, let alone a reasonably lengthy explanation of their disgust?It's usually "boring" -- it's not to any true cineaste, of course -- or the characters are morally bankrupt -- so, that's not a valid reason to loathe a movie; in fact, it's a completely biased and stupid reason to mount a criticism of a work of art on.Face it, "Sideways" was made for people who love film that challenges them, surprises them, moves them, forces them to see life in a different light.Most people don't want to be challenged -- you know who you are, you brain-dead video gamers, you Internet-addled, low-alpha brain-wave unguents -- so why bother to voice your complaints about this brilliant movie unless you really have something profound to say in defense of your criticism.Compared to the one-star reviews, the five-star reviews are very lengthy, usually articulate and thoughtful and understand what the filmmaker was trying to accomplish.An Alexander Payne should be celebrated, a studio that gives him money should be extolled.It's just too bad there aren't more of him.I did have one criticism of the DVD, though -- but it won't change my five-star rating -- and that's the voice-over commentary by Thomas Church and Giamatti.It's so puerile at times, so uninformative; too bad Payne didn't do it with his writing partner.Oh, well, fortunately one doesn't have to listen to their drivel, and even if one decides to suffer it, it in no way detracts from their courageous performances.

Interesting movie with excellent characters
I guess I could start with a short synopsis.Two college buddies are headed North to the wine country for a week long bachelor party.Miles is in a depressed state because of a divorce and Jack is looking to get some before he gets married.From this spouts some crazy situations in and out of vineyards.

What you do get from this movie is excellent characters.Even though Miles could be incredibly annoying you end up feeling for him.I think a lot of people have friends that are like Jack.They're a bit older but still act immature at times.Virginia Madsen and Sandra Oh are both awesome too.While Sandra Oh's character could have been developed more I don't think the movie suffers because of it.

The dialogue is witty and sarcastic sometimes to the point of being outright hilarious.Granted it may take a special kind of humor to understand why some things are funny.There are some things that are just sophomoric but they lighten the film at times where you think Miles might drag you down.

There is definitely a reason why this movie was nominated for a bunch of awards.You can't go wrong with sharp/witty writing and excellent acting/direction.I would highly recommend at least going out and renting this movie.I know it will soon become a part of my collection. ... Read more

Description

Warren Schmidt (Nicholson) is about to taste a not so sweet slice of life. When he retired, he and his wife Helen had big plans, but an unexpected twist changed everything. Now, all of Schmidt's attention is focused his daughter's upcoming wedding to a loser waterbed salesman. From meeting hippie parents to sponsoring a Tanzanian foster child, Schmidt embarks on a search for answers...and discovers that life is full of trick questions. ... Read more

Reviews (289)

One of the best movies of all time
"About Schmidt" is, simply put, a milestone in American cinema. Coming off "Election," which was quite possibly the funniest movie of all time, director Alexander Payne delivered another classic here, but one of a different stripe. With Jack Nicholson delivering a performance that's somehow both low-key and passionate, this character study relentlessly examines the darker side of human existence, plumbing the depths of despair and hopelessness. However, the central character isn't a serial killer, a sex offender, or some similar paragon of depravity. Instead, he's a quiet, 66-year-old newly retired actuary from Nebraska named Warren Schmidt. That's what really makes this movie so depressing: someday, maybe not too far off, any of us could wind up like this movie's antihero, retired, widowed, and feeling useless.

Alexander Payne's portrait of Midwestern suburban life is almost unrelentingly bleak, following its main character around and focusing on all the tiny indignities that steadily pile up on him. The relentlessly self-analytical Warren has examined his life in search of some higher purpose, and he's come up lacking. Looking back he can see only missed opportunities and pointless toil, and looking ahead he only glimpses loneliness and impending death. He has only two things left that give his life any semblance of meaning: his attempts to prevent his beloved daughter from marrying a mulleted, fu-manchued waterbed salesman named Randall; and Ndugu, the Tanzanian orphan whom he starts supporting financially early in the movie. Warren's letters to Ndugu serve as a perfect framing device, providing a window to the internal conflicts that roil beneath his quiet exterior.

Since the monstrous shadow of "Election" looms over this movie for its entire two hours, comparisons are all but inevitable, and I might as well make mine now. Both movies are allegorical tales set in white-bread Nebraska locales, but "Election" is a screwball comedy anchored by a serious plot, while "About Schmidt" is a dark tale of quiet desparation and self-reflection with some offbeat humor mixed in. It's a good thing there are some laughs here too, or I might have wound up trying to hang myself with my belt after I first saw the movie. Most of the humor to be found come from Dermot Mulroney's clueless Randall and, of course, Kathy Bates as Randall's mildly deranged motormouth of a mother. Bates practically steals the show during her limited screen time, as her character's sincerity, her brutal honesty, and above all her tendency to reveal excessive details provides a much-needed counterpoint to Nicholson's reserve and bitterness.

While I'll be the first to admit that "About Schmidt" isn't an easy movie to watch, it's not supposed to be. What makes this such a rewarding movie is the challenge of watching such a thoroughly unremarkable man for two hours, following along with his path through despair, self-discovery, and ultimately a measure of redemption. Sure, Warren Schmidt's just a retired geezer from Nebraska, but his sufferings are more universal than they may appear at first. Warren's experiences make for such fascinating viewing precisely because there are so many people like him out there.

Facing the "golden" years with sorrow.
"About Schmidt" is a wonderful movie starring the great Jack Nicholson, who plays the hapless retiree, Warren Schmidt. Warren lives in Omaha, Nebraska, and he is put out to pasture after a long career with an insurance company. Warren hates retirement, for which he is ill-prepared. In addition, Helen, Warren's wife of forty-two years, irritates him with her annoying habits and idiosyncrasies. Worst of all, Jeannie, Warren's beloved only child, is engaged to a man whom Warren cannot stand.

When Warren suddenly becomes a widower, he takes stock of his life, and he is appalled at how empty it is. In desperation, Warren starts to write rambling letters to his Tanzanian foster child, Ndugu. (Warren sends the child twenty-two dollars a month in response to a television appeal). Even though Ndugu is six years old and cannot read, Warren pours his heart into these letters as a means of venting his anger and frustration.

Alexander Payne, who directed "About Schmidt" and shares credit for writing the fine screenplay, has done a commendable job of eliciting strong performances from an excellent cast. Kathy Bates is a hoot as Jeannie's future mother-in-law, and both Len Cariou and Howard Hesseman shine in small roles. The film, however, belongs to Jack Nicholson, who appears in practically every frame.

Nicholson acts with his entire body. He does wonders with a raised eyebrow, a half-smile, a gesture or a glance. In one hilarious scene, Nicholson does battle with a waterbed and loses. Nicholson captures the very essence of Warren Schmidt, a man who will never be ready for the first day of the rest of his life. Don't miss "About Schmidt" if you want to see one of the best performances of this or any year.

Devastatingly Sad and Darkly Humorous
Many critics unfairly compare "About Schmidt" to Alexander Payne's previous film "Election." Both movies are completely different and appeal to different people and tastes. "Schmidt" is more grown-up, more human, and less accessible and commercial. It is Payne's masterpiece.

Jack Nicholson, in one of his all-time best performances, plays a recent retiree who goes through an end-of-life crisis. His wife dies and his daughter is marrying an idiot, played with comedic brilliance by Dermot Mulroney. He hops in his Winnebago and drives across the United States to have his say. Nicholson is a tired old man who doesn't want to give up on life quite yet, and in a last show of defiance and nonconformity, he tries to stop the wedding.

"Schmidt," to some, is an unrelenting Prozac festival. But if you have a taste for black comedy, and enjoy watching ordinary people fail miserably and make jackasses out of themselves, as well as appreciate good drama, "Schmidt" is your type of movie. It's true, most of the film is sad. But there are moments -- especially when Nicholson shows up at Kathy Bates's house and has to endure her completely dysfunctional brood -- of comedic genius.

If that's not enough to convince you, watch it for Nicholson's performance alone. Oftentimes in his long spanning career, Nicholson has resorted to playing mockeries of his public persona -- flashing those eyebrows and exploding that smile of his. But in "Schmidt" he appropriately plays the role of an old defeated man. You won't even know it's him. He seems to have aged an additional 67 years just to play this role, and it's inspiring. It's also a lesson that, no matter how old you are, there's no reason to give up on your hopes and dreams -- just make sure you're not trying to topple the Berlin Wall alone.

Sad and funny. Bitter and cynical. "About Schmidt" has it all, including some of the most unforgettable elderly characters ever portrayed on screen.

what?!
what is wrong with these reviewers? one person says that it's funny, the next person says that it's depressing. one of the top reviewers said that it's a film meant only for jack nicholson fans, yet i couldn't disagree any more.

my guess is this. the family goes to blockbuster to rent a movie, and they see "about schmidt." though the movie is found in the drama section, the view of the majority is that it's another one of the infamous "crazy person" nicholson roles, making for a "blisteringly funny" comedy .. or at least a good show. then, what do you know? the movie turns out to be a bummer. however, it's only because the expectation was not met.

this is not a film for jack nicholson fans. one reviewer made this comment: "By far the tiredest, lamest movie I have ever seen. I've never been Jack's biggest fan, but this is sooooooo bad. I can't believe he did this. Go get Anger Management instead." see what i am saying?! this reviewer wanted the crazy, psycho, FUNNY jack nicholson. when he or she met a retired, secluded, and very off base man trying to find meaning in life, they gave up on the film. it's obvious that they wanted something more along the lines of adam sandler's work (with the exception of punch-drunk love) than a serious film.

now, on to other things. one reviewer stated that jack nicholson ends up playing the same role over and over again, the (and i quote) "crusty curmudgeon with a heart of gold." how off target could one be? one gets the feeling in this movie that jack is heartless - he has little passion for his marriage, he wants to keep his own daughter from marrying, and the only thing he seems to do right in the entire movie is send money to a starving kid in a third world country. sounds like a pure heart of gold to me... not.really.

so, if you've made it this far in my review, you may be asking yourself what one is to make of this movie, and i will gladly tell you.

depressing, yes. long-winded, most definitely. however, that's not why i'm giving this movie 5 stars. if one can look past their short attention span and stick with the movie, one will find that this movie is extremely rewarding. the message of the film was one of... don't let the smallest things go unnoticed in your life, for even they hold rewards. at the very end of the movie, nicholson finds himself face to face with the "painting" of two people holding hands. my interpretation of this is that nicholson is a rich man if only for the fact that he touched someone who was in need. walking away from this movie, i am keeping with me the thought that every little detail of our sometimes miserable life is extremely important.

this movie almost got a 4 star rating for its drawn-out length and for the fact that it's very depressing if not viewed with an attentive spirit. however, i gave this movie 5 stars because it has left me with a desire to make more of myself as a human being. through the almost destructible solemnity of this film, i came out with a greater appreciation and understanding for every single thing that i do. and that is what filmmaking is truly about.

God, what a depressing movie
What a depressing and movie. I kept watching it hoping that at some pivotal point in the movie Schmidt would have some revelation and find some purpose. Well it kind of comes at the very end but is still real lame with the reading of a letter from a Sister at his sponsored childs home. The movie drags on for over 2 hours showing a depressing man leading a boring, depressing life. There is no character development, and at the end of the movie you wondered what the purpose of the whole film was. I can never decide if it was supposed to be a comedy or a drama. The few funny moments are overshadowed by the dark and depressing tone of the whole movie. ... Read more

Amazon.com essential video

Matthew Broderick makes up for years of wet-noodle performances with his low-key but unsparing characterization of Jim McAllister, a high school teacher at George Washington Carver High School in Omaha, Nebraska. Driven by a strange mixture of loathing and lust for pathologically overachieving student Tracy Flick (Reese Witherspoon), McAllister encourages a dim but popular athlete, Paul (Chris Klein from American Pie), to run against her in the election for student-council president. Director-cowriter Alexander Payne (Citizen Ruth) turns this deceptively simple premise into a complex and scathing comedy of ambition, corruption, and desire, all at its most naked and petty. Every scene contains some painfully funny nuance that will make you wince in a mixture of astonishment and empathy. Witherspoon flips effortlessly back and forth from adolescent vulnerability to steely-eyed strength; she's becoming a contemporary Carole Lombard. The movie itself feels like a magnificent throwback to the richly layered comedies of the '30s, which drew their humor from sharply drawn characters and twisting plots instead of explosions of bodily fluids. With a wealth of smart, cutting details, Election rewards multiple viewing. --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Reviews (205)

A solid, thought-provoking film.
I've watched this movie several times and must say that it's interesting, good, and involving. Election is a satire that's based on a novel. G. W. Carver High School (in Omaha, Nebraska) is holding an election for student council president. An ambitious student named Tracy Flick (Reese Witherspoon) is running unopposed for the position. Schoolteacher Jim McAllister (Matthew Broderick) decides to encourage student Paul Metzler (Chris Klein) to run against her. That's basically the gist of this unconventional and intricate satire. Election moves at a steady pace and never becomes tedious. The acting from the entire cast is exceptional. Broderick and Witherspoon are especially convincing in their roles. The story examines various human frailties (hypocrisy, adultery, lesbianism, etc.). I also find the movie's character development to be impressive. There are some funny scenes along with some unexpected and surprising ones, too. Repeated viewings have helped me to get more out of this film--it contains some subtleties. Election is a thought-provoking movie that's definitely worth a watch.

One of the Funniest Movies EVER...
With low expectations, I saw "Election" at my university's theater. I could not have been more pleasantly surprised. Matthew Broderick portrays the high school teacher pushed over the edge by the overly driven student, Reese Witherspoon. The best thing about this movie is that anyone can relate to nearly all of the characters. Matthew Broderick is that ideological teacher who really wanted to make a difference; Reese Witherspoon is the girl everybody hated because she always knew the answer. Chris Kline is that one super-jock, who manages to be an amazingly nice guy.

Most of the comedy comes from Broderick's hateful obsession with Witherspoon. This hate drives a good guy to do everything he can to keep Witherspoon from winning the high school Presidential election. This film thrives on the hilarious characters, all of who will undoubtedly remind you of your high school friends and enemies (one of them will undoubtedly remind you of yourself).

"Election" is more intelligent, funnier, and more creative than any of the more recent high school nostalgia flicks like "American Pie." I can't say enough positive things about this film, one of the funniest movies of the 90's.

Immoral Garbage
You're thinking, 'Matthew Broderick & Reese Witherspoon this ought to be a good movie.' WRONG. That's what I was thinking. The fact that MTV Films produced this movie should have been enough of a warning. Election is not funny, nor clever, nor interesting. All the major characters are immoral bad people doing immoral bad stuff. I am not a prude and if this movie was entertaining in anyway I could have set aside my judgement of the characters knowing that they are fictional. However, it is not entertaining, nor do any of the characters show remorse or grow in anyway. There is nothing redeming about this movie.
Please don't waste your time.

Great movie
This movie does an amazing job of incorporating the points of view of several different characters, allowing viewers to both laugh at and feel for their perspectives and situations. It's a journey through a high school election, a seemingly common event, but one that takes on special significance due to corruption, sexual improprieties, the pursuit and destruction of dreams, and the search for success and acceptance. A movie that is both serious and comedic, refreshing and thoughtful, engaging and fun. Witherspoon does an excellent job portraying the intensity of youthful overachiever and presidential candidate Tracy. A great movie for those who are looking for a fun movie with some depth.

The best of 99.
Only Fight Club came close to this movie when it comes to the best of 99. (Which had lots of great movies. Sadly one of my least favorites of 99 won Best Picture). But really, I love this movie. It reminds me of all those great days in high school (including rumors of a teacher sleeping with a student). The thing I loved the most was the location shooting. It didn't have that Hollywood feel; instead it had a mid-western look. The houses, the hotel, the Wallgreens, the school; nothing looked out of place for Nebraska.

But that's not the only thing to love. The acting is great all around. Even Chris Kline (who went on to star in masterpieces like "Rollerball") pulls off a good performance. However the real ace is Reese Witherspoon. She pulls of a perfect performance. It's a shame she's stuck in those silly Legally Blonde movies now; she can do so much better. Plus I loved Jessica Campbell. She reminds of the girl who broke my heart in high school.

The plotting is air tight. There is not one unneccesary scene and the film moves along briskly. The story is funny. The ending is great. I haven't read the book yet, but I plan to visit the Library to get it someday. Very, very highly recommended. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Playboy - Inside Out 1
This is worth it, if only for the short directed by Alexander Payne (Election). It's hysterically funny! In it a woman drifts into sleep while fantasizing about numerous oddball men coming into her room and doing things to her (such as pouring cream corn over her body). Great work! If you're only into the "erotica" though, you may as well look elsewhere. The only originality here comes from Mr. Payne's sharp wit. ... Read more

Amazon.com

An uneven script is the flaw of this social satire set in America's heartland. It deals with an unrepentant junkie, played with unexpected finesse by Laura Dern. Pregnant for the umpteenth time and informed by a judge he may overlook felony charges if she aborts the pregnancy, the stoned Ruth Stoops is claimed as a dazed spokesperson by both sides of the controversial abortion issue. This has a lot to say about the abuse and influence of the media The black, black humor is subtle and intelligent and quite often works in the hands of the strong supporting cast. However, the script occasionally lurches into depressing territory, throwing off the balance. Still, this raises interesting issues and Dern's performance is very powerful. Ruth is flawed and prickly, but Dern brings her to life by imbuing her with interesting personality tics. --Rochelle O'Gorman ... Read more

Reviews (23)

DARING !!!
Alexander Payne went out on a limb for this film, and succeeded brilliantly in showing the fanatical zealots on both sides of the abortion debate. Almost every character (none them a positive one)is a caricature and portrayed to perfection by the highly recognizable actors who play them. The movie offends everyone and that is its appeal!!!

Laura Dern is outstanding in her role as the dim and drugged Ruth Stoops, utterly oblivious to the issues and to those who want only to use her to achieve their own ends. Ruth could care less about a "cause" --all she wants is money and a way to get high.

This movie points out the absolute disrespect that zealots who blindly follow a "cause" have for individual rights and free choice. They see everything in black-or-white and have no room for others' thoughts and just feel the need to control others' lives. To Payne's credit, however, there is no good side or bad side in this movie, and no pat ending either.

There is a lot of truth covered over by humor in this movie, and many things said that could never have been voiced in a more conventional film. It shows, among other things, how the more bizarre extremists actually do damage to the causes they want to promote.

Thought-provoking.

A fun film...about choices
Laura Dern plays an unlikely hero Ruth Stoops....a symbol in a war of anti- abortion and pro choice....
Ruth SToops is a drug addict...after sniffing some paint the cops finds ruth again and puts her in jail again. There Ruth Finds out she is knocked up. So she wants to get rid of it but while at an anti- abortion clinic she some how changes her mind for the time being. A nice couple with a mission bails her out. But Ruth tries but goes back to old ways...she than stays with a friend of the couple but the friend turns out to be a spy for pro choice...Ruth's confused....she doesn't know who to believe....she doesn't know who to trust and if they want to take care of her as a friend or they just wanther to send a message for there cause.
This is a funny and hilarious movie....laura dern plays ruth stoops to perfection...at the start you jeer ruth stoops...but by the ending of the movie you will be cheering for ruth stoops...

Hilarious, but unclear.
Black comedy at its best. The 1996 film "Citizen Ruth" literally (and blatantly) pokes fun at the ongoing abortion debate, a subject which, in reality, isn't all that funny. Still, it draws enough laughs from its audiences to last them awhile.

Performances are all top-rate. Laura Dern is off the wall as the unbearable Ruth, and although one wants to physically harm her before the end of the film, she still keeps what it takes to keep the viewer interested throughout. Kurtwood Smith and Mary Kay Place turn in hilarity as the devout pro-lifers, as do Swoosie Kurtz and Kelly Preston on the other side of the fence. Watch for great cameos by Burt Reynolds and Hitchcock-veteran Tippi Hedren as, respectively, a creepily baby-loving televangelist and a staunchly serious women's rights activist.

The film does hilariously criticize both sides of the abortion debate, by portraying all the pro-lifers as big-haired, small-minded, "praise the lord"-shouting faux evangelists, as it portrays all the pro-choice characters as being homosexual, moon-worshipping (literally), mediagenic feminazis.

However, the film DOES has a slant, which is possibly its only flaw. The only character that doesn't reach to extremes and wants what really is best for Ruth is the pro-choice activists' bodyguard Harlan (played by the convincing M. C. Gainey), who, in all honesty, just believes in "human rights and personal freedom." Also, in the end, Ruth does essentially make her own choice, even if it is a bit skewed. Furthermore, the pro-life side is slammed much harder and more frequently than the pro-choice side. Director Alexander Payne should have made his statement more clear (that we as human beings should care for other human beings rather than just principles and issues), by picking a side of the fence to sit on rather than beating around the bush. However, the point is taken in the end, and it's entertaining along the way, on whichever side of the fence you happen to be.

Ruth Stoops to Conquer
Having seen ELECTION previously and now, finally, catching up with CITIZEN RUTH, I can't help getting excited about the work of filmmaker Alexander Payne. In both cases, the initial buzz on the films seemed positive, but in neither case, did I feel the need to rush right out to see them. An abortion comedy? A high school student council election used as a pretext to make a larger statement about ethics in contemporary American political lifez/ Frankly, the chances of either film being pulled off successfully did not seem so good.

But Payne and co-sreenwriter Jim Taylor succeeded beyond expectation both times out. These are films that take no prisoners. It's not surprising that in the case of RUTH, many viewers focus on the equal-opportunity skewering that both sides of the abortion debate receive. All true, but the characters are not quite the stereotypical cut-out figures that some have suggested. While Mary Kay Place as a fundamentalist pro-lifer may seem an obvious choice, and Swoosie Kurtz's performance as a radical pro-choicer may seem standard-issue at first, both the script and the individual performances are so full of deft touches and subtle embellishments, that their characters' self-contradictory humanity finally does begin to emerge.

Caught up in the abortion rights maelstrom is the hapless Ruth Stoops, a homeless drug addict and four-time pronounced unfit mother, who finds herself facing felony charges of 'fetal abuse' after a routine physical examination after a drug bust finds her pregnant once again. At least one review I found poking around the Net, suggested that the theme was getting a little "old" by the time of this film's release in 1996. The "fetal abuse" charge, however, is precisely the element that made the film au courant. The 'fetal rights' argument has been used increasingly in recent years to advance the pro-life cause.

Satire has its own special demands on actors, but turning in a multi-layered performance is not usually one of them. As suggested above, actors like Kurtz and Place are given some opportunity to do just that and you'll catch those moments if you don't blink. But in the title role Laura Dern is given that privelege throughout. Ruth is certainly slow-witted and morally immature, but Payne and Taylor wisely give her just enough self-awareness to make her interesting. And Dern does not play her too broadly. The satire takes on life around this authentic seeming character, almost despite her. CITIZEN RUTH is richer than your average cinematic satire.

Payne and Taylor are also the creative team behind ABOUT SCHMIDT, another film I missed in its theatrical run. Let's face it, it IS hard to keep up if you have a life. But now THAT one is definitely on my list of must-sees. A new film, SIDEWAYS, is currently in production. OK, next time out, I'll see that one first-run.

Interesting off-beat indie film
Laura Dern is great in this social satire. The film doesn't take sides and brings up interesting questions. The script is smart and it takes you places you don't expect. Some of the minor characters might benefit from toning down a bit -- it gets a little heavy handed at times -- but still so much better and more original than most independent films. There are some great comic moments as well as poignant ones. A thought-provoking film. DVD also has an interesting commentary by Alexander Payne and Jim Taylor. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Playboy - Inside Out 1
This is worth it, if only for the short directed by Alexander Payne (Election). It's hysterically funny! In it a woman drifts into sleep while fantasizing about numerous oddball men coming into her room and doing things to her (such as pouring cream corn over her body). Great work! If you're only into the "erotica" though, you may as well look elsewhere. The only originality here comes from Mr. Payne's sharp wit. ... Read more

Reviews (205)

A solid, thought-provoking film.
I've watched this movie several times and must say that it's interesting, good, and involving. Election is a satire that's based on a novel. G. W. Carver High School (in Omaha, Nebraska) is holding an election for student council president. An ambitious student named Tracy Flick (Reese Witherspoon) is running unopposed for the position. Schoolteacher Jim McAllister (Matthew Broderick) decides to encourage student Paul Metzler (Chris Klein) to run against her. That's basically the gist of this unconventional and intricate satire. Election moves at a steady pace and never becomes tedious. The acting from the entire cast is exceptional. Broderick and Witherspoon are especially convincing in their roles. The story examines various human frailties (hypocrisy, adultery, lesbianism, etc.). I also find the movie's character development to be impressive. There are some funny scenes along with some unexpected and surprising ones, too. Repeated viewings have helped me to get more out of this film--it contains some subtleties. Election is a thought-provoking movie that's definitely worth a watch.

One of the Funniest Movies EVER...
With low expectations, I saw "Election" at my university's theater. I could not have been more pleasantly surprised. Matthew Broderick portrays the high school teacher pushed over the edge by the overly driven student, Reese Witherspoon. The best thing about this movie is that anyone can relate to nearly all of the characters. Matthew Broderick is that ideological teacher who really wanted to make a difference; Reese Witherspoon is the girl everybody hated because she always knew the answer. Chris Kline is that one super-jock, who manages to be an amazingly nice guy.

Most of the comedy comes from Broderick's hateful obsession with Witherspoon. This hate drives a good guy to do everything he can to keep Witherspoon from winning the high school Presidential election. This film thrives on the hilarious characters, all of who will undoubtedly remind you of your high school friends and enemies (one of them will undoubtedly remind you of yourself).

"Election" is more intelligent, funnier, and more creative than any of the more recent high school nostalgia flicks like "American Pie." I can't say enough positive things about this film, one of the funniest movies of the 90's.

Immoral Garbage
You're thinking, 'Matthew Broderick & Reese Witherspoon this ought to be a good movie.' WRONG. That's what I was thinking. The fact that MTV Films produced this movie should have been enough of a warning. Election is not funny, nor clever, nor interesting. All the major characters are immoral bad people doing immoral bad stuff. I am not a prude and if this movie was entertaining in anyway I could have set aside my judgement of the characters knowing that they are fictional. However, it is not entertaining, nor do any of the characters show remorse or grow in anyway. There is nothing redeming about this movie.
Please don't waste your time.

Great movie
This movie does an amazing job of incorporating the points of view of several different characters, allowing viewers to both laugh at and feel for their perspectives and situations. It's a journey through a high school election, a seemingly common event, but one that takes on special significance due to corruption, sexual improprieties, the pursuit and destruction of dreams, and the search for success and acceptance. A movie that is both serious and comedic, refreshing and thoughtful, engaging and fun. Witherspoon does an excellent job portraying the intensity of youthful overachiever and presidential candidate Tracy. A great movie for those who are looking for a fun movie with some depth.

The best of 99.
Only Fight Club came close to this movie when it comes to the best of 99. (Which had lots of great movies. Sadly one of my least favorites of 99 won Best Picture). But really, I love this movie. It reminds me of all those great days in high school (including rumors of a teacher sleeping with a student). The thing I loved the most was the location shooting. It didn't have that Hollywood feel; instead it had a mid-western look. The houses, the hotel, the Wallgreens, the school; nothing looked out of place for Nebraska.

But that's not the only thing to love. The acting is great all around. Even Chris Kline (who went on to star in masterpieces like "Rollerball") pulls off a good performance. However the real ace is Reese Witherspoon. She pulls of a perfect performance. It's a shame she's stuck in those silly Legally Blonde movies now; she can do so much better. Plus I loved Jessica Campbell. She reminds of the girl who broke my heart in high school.

The plotting is air tight. There is not one unneccesary scene and the film moves along briskly. The story is funny. The ending is great. I haven't read the book yet, but I plan to visit the Library to get it someday. Very, very highly recommended. ... Read more

Amazon.com

With Sideways, Paul Giamatti (American Splendor, Storytelling) has become an unlikely but engaging romantic lead. Struggling novelist and wine connoisseur Miles (Giamatti) takes his best friend Jack (Thomas Haden Church, Wings) on a wine-tasting tour of California vineyards for a kind of extended bachelor party. Almost immediately, Jack's insatiable need to sow some wild oats before his marriage leads them into double-dates with a rambunctious wine pourer (Sandra Oh, Under the Tuscan Sun) and a recently divorced waitress (Virginia Madsen, The Hot Spot)--and Miles discovers a little hope that he hasn't let himself feel in a long time. Sideways is a modest but finely tuned film; with gentle compassion, it explores the failures, struggles, and lowered expectations of mid-life. Giamatti makes regret and self-loathing sympathetic, almost sweet. From the director of Election and About Schmidt. --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Reviews (305)

Loved it
This movie was sooooo good. All I can say is I loved it I loved it

delicious little movie
The risk involved in describing "Sideways" as a road movie about obsessive wine tasting is that people who are not wine buffs/connoisseurs are likely to stay away from it, which would be a pity. So let me discuss it from a different perspective: Sideways is in fact a buddy movie, and not an overly comic one. Granted, there is a fair share of funny scenes but overall the tone of the movie veers clearly toward the dramatic.
Meet Miles and Jack. The former is a small-time english teacher (and aspiring novelist...too bad his aspirations are constantly frustrated), the latter is a washed-up tv actor with a career that after a promising start never really took off. Both are middle-aged guys who are coping with lowered expectations and shattered ambitions.
Jack is about to marry (although he feels uneasy about his marital future) and the two friends embark on a wine-tasting extended bachelor party that eventually feels much like a coming of age story.
There is a lot of wine talking going on throughout the movie but wine isn't the whole point. Wine is more like a metaphor for life and there is a brilliant dialogue between Miles and Maya (the girl he falls in love with) that clearly shows this point.
This is not a happy-ending movie. There's a lot of stark realism in it and although the finale leaves some hope for Miles, it's quite obvious that this is LIFE, not some fairy tale.
This is no educational movie either. There are scenes where "getting sideways", far from being frowned upon, is elevated to something very romantic or, at least, something that lets us understand Miles' deep suffering, forcing us to be sympathetic to his condition.
Anyway, enough with the social commentary, I greatly appreciated this movie and I think that anybody with a passing interest in non-mainstream stuff should see it.

Will This Film EVER End!
A slice of life? A road movie?To be a slice of life the lives should be interesting.To be a road movie interesting things should happen en route.Aside from a lengthy plug for the California Wine industry, the whole movie struck me as tedious.There are some amusing moments and dialogue tucked between a lot of mundane, unfunny and often depressing conversation and events.The lead character steals from his mother and despite his affection for wine in the abstract, drinks to deal with depression by getting sloppy drunk.Meanwhile his buddy shows such respect for the woman he's driving north to marry that he's willing to bed anything with a pulse between Los Angeles and the Napa Valley.And we're supposed to care about these people?Why the movie industry is so high on this film beats me.After watching it carefully twice, trying to find some overlooked redeeming quality, I just don't see it.Possibly I'm not sophisticated enough to enjoy it.Possibly it's not that great a movie.

It may have some appeal to the wine connoisseur or wanna'be who's always wanted to impress his friends by saying things like, "It's a sassy little pinot that perfectly complements ze flavour of ze Ritz Crackers and ze Cheeez Whiz." but I found myself wishing it was a much shorter movie.I certainly won't recommend it to anyone I like or remember it 6 months from now ... probably less.

A Cineaste's Dream
I won't rehash the plot, the characters, etc., as that's all so familiar by now.Why is this film a small wonder?Because it's what happens in the interstices, between the minimal action and the raucous laughs.Like the characters or not, they are painfully real, and we get so few real characters in movies today.We get so few honestly-motivated characters today.And the reason:one has only to peruse the one-star reviews on this site.Has anyone noticed that the one-star reviews are generally very short, as if the attention span of the denouncer couldn't sustain a paragraph, let alone a reasonably lengthy explanation of their disgust?It's usually "boring" -- it's not to any true cineaste, of course -- or the characters are morally bankrupt -- so, that's not a valid reason to loathe a movie; in fact, it's a completely biased and stupid reason to mount a criticism of a work of art on.Face it, "Sideways" was made for people who love film that challenges them, surprises them, moves them, forces them to see life in a different light.Most people don't want to be challenged -- you know who you are, you brain-dead video gamers, you Internet-addled, low-alpha brain-wave unguents -- so why bother to voice your complaints about this brilliant movie unless you really have something profound to say in defense of your criticism.Compared to the one-star reviews, the five-star reviews are very lengthy, usually articulate and thoughtful and understand what the filmmaker was trying to accomplish.An Alexander Payne should be celebrated, a studio that gives him money should be extolled.It's just too bad there aren't more of him.I did have one criticism of the DVD, though -- but it won't change my five-star rating -- and that's the voice-over commentary by Thomas Church and Giamatti.It's so puerile at times, so uninformative; too bad Payne didn't do it with his writing partner.Oh, well, fortunately one doesn't have to listen to their drivel, and even if one decides to suffer it, it in no way detracts from their courageous performances.

Interesting movie with excellent characters
I guess I could start with a short synopsis.Two college buddies are headed North to the wine country for a week long bachelor party.Miles is in a depressed state because of a divorce and Jack is looking to get some before he gets married.From this spouts some crazy situations in and out of vineyards.

What you do get from this movie is excellent characters.Even though Miles could be incredibly annoying you end up feeling for him.I think a lot of people have friends that are like Jack.They're a bit older but still act immature at times.Virginia Madsen and Sandra Oh are both awesome too.While Sandra Oh's character could have been developed more I don't think the movie suffers because of it.

The dialogue is witty and sarcastic sometimes to the point of being outright hilarious.Granted it may take a special kind of humor to understand why some things are funny.There are some things that are just sophomoric but they lighten the film at times where you think Miles might drag you down.

There is definitely a reason why this movie was nominated for a bunch of awards.You can't go wrong with sharp/witty writing and excellent acting/direction.I would highly recommend at least going out and renting this movie.I know it will soon become a part of my collection. ... Read more

Amazon.com

While confirming Jack Nicholson's status as an American nationaltreasure, About Schmidt is sure to provoke polarized reactions. Stoked bythe success of Election, director Alexander Payne and cowriter Jim Taylorhave altered Louis Begley's novel to suit their comedic agenda, turningNicholson's titular character into a 66-year-old, newly retired Omaha insuranceactuary, weary from decades of drudgery and passionless marriage. When his wifesuddenly dies, he attempts to reclaim his life in a king-sized Winnebago,desperate to convince his daughter (Hope Davis) not to marry the Denver dimwit(Dermot Mulroney) whose mother (Kathy Bates) has her own baggage of peculiarpeccadilloes. Nicholson perfectly (and often hilariously) nails the seethinganger beneath his character's façade of resignation, but Payne and Taylor conveycold-hearted contempt for these Midwestern malcontents. Think of this asIkiru with bleaker humanity, until Schmidt finds meaning--and some smallreward--in a quiet gesture of goodwill. Love it or hate it, About Schmidtis a movie you won't soon forget. --Jeff Shannon ... Read more

Reviews (289)

I was told I wouldn't understand this
I am not 66 years old, not anywhere near it, but older viewers of "about schmidt" warned me I wouldn't understand..
it is perfectly understandable! The story of a man who has a second chance at life after losing his wife, starring the always intense Jack Nicholson, is a bittersweet, often quite comical, and very odd. Jack plays Warren Schmidt, the just retired actuary who starts up as foster parent to an underpriviledged child. This is how the story gets told part of the time. He is writing letters to this small boy telling him about his wife's annoying habits, about his daughter who's abandoned her family, and suddenly his wife is gone.
He packs up and takes a road trip in a new Winnebago. Daughter Jeannie(Hope Davis)is getting married, and he wants to talk her out of it.
Kathy Bates does an outstanding job as Ray's eccentric mother. She was fun to watch.
In a nutshell this film is 'about schmidt' and his complexities and him finding purpose. In between there are a few oddball characters thrown in for good measure.

A subtle,poignant film
About Schmidt is not a film for everyone.It's a film that involves some thinking on your part, and its portrayl of the everyday life of a recently retired suburban man comes off as pretty bleak and hopeless.Jack Nicholson plays Warren Schmidt, the man above.Following his retirement, he begins to feel as though his entire life has been meaningless."When I die,what will prove that I ever existed?" He's bored with his wife, his daughter(Hope Davis) is about to marry dim witted, but well-meaning water bed salesman out in Denver called Randall Hurtzel(Dermot Mulroney, unrecognizable).He has nothing to do, and nothing to look forward to.So he starts writing letters and sending out monthly donations to a starving six year old boy, through one of those help-a-kid funds you see on tv.Out of nowhere, his wife dies, leaving Schmidt more alone then he could have ever dreamed to be.He begins to realize how little he appreciated his wife when he still had her, and what a great woman she truly was.Warren decides to take a road trip in his trailer all the way to Denver, in time for his daughter's wedding.He has a few lightly humorous encounters on the way.Upon arriving to his daughter's fiancee's family home, he is overwhelmed by their low-class,over the top crazy antics.Greeted by Randal's nutsy mother(played with rich humor and gusto by Kathy Bates).There are some truly laugh-out loud,unforgettable moments during Schmidt's stay.Warren is deeply concerned with her daughter's choice in marrying this guy, but despite Schmidt's frim protests, his daughter refuses to change her mind.Following the wedding, Warren heads back home, and film draws to its very subtle,but touching conclusion .

I can see why someone would call this film depressing-its strarkly realistic in depicting the monotony of being an old and lonely man.But if you really look at this film, you can see that by the end, our man has found some small redemption,has laid down a little bit of proof, that yes, he once existed.Once you think about it, this facet of the movie becomes clear.

Jack Nicholson is brilliant in a wonderfully subdued performance.He isn't just portraying Schmidt, he really is this man.He's bitter, and alone, and realistically flawed, but in the end, entirely human, totally believable and undeniable tender.He gets excellent support from the ENTIRE cast.Every single person in this film is pitch perfect, from Hope Davis who plays Schmidt's cold and contemptuous daughter, to Kathy Bates, totally winning in a brashly humorous role.

About Schmidt takes a while to understand because it doesn't give away all its meanings.But About Schmidt is a film with great meaning, and the subtle details it provides throughout make it a worthwile experience.

One of the best movies of all time
"About Schmidt" is, simply put, a milestone in American cinema. Coming off "Election," which was quite possibly the funniest movie of all time, director Alexander Payne delivered another classic here, but one of a different stripe. With Jack Nicholson delivering a performance that's somehow both low-key and passionate, this character study relentlessly examines the darker side of human existence, plumbing the depths of despair and hopelessness. However, the central character isn't a serial killer, a sex offender, or some similar paragon of depravity. Instead, he's a quiet, 66-year-old newly retired actuary from Nebraska named Warren Schmidt. That's what really makes this movie so depressing: someday, maybe not too far off, any of us could wind up like this movie's antihero, retired, widowed, and feeling useless.

Alexander Payne's portrait of Midwestern suburban life is almost unrelentingly bleak, following its main character around and focusing on all the tiny indignities that steadily pile up on him. The relentlessly self-analytical Warren has examined his life in search of some higher purpose, and he's come up lacking. Looking back he can see only missed opportunities and pointless toil, and looking ahead he only glimpses loneliness and impending death. He has only two things left that give his life any semblance of meaning: his attempts to prevent his beloved daughter from marrying a mulleted, fu-manchued waterbed salesman named Randall; and Ndugu, the Tanzanian orphan whom he starts supporting financially early in the movie. Warren's letters to Ndugu serve as a perfect framing device, providing a window to the internal conflicts that roil beneath his quiet exterior.

Since the monstrous shadow of "Election" looms over this movie for its entire two hours, comparisons are all but inevitable, and I might as well make mine now. Both movies are allegorical tales set in white-bread Nebraska locales, but "Election" is a screwball comedy anchored by a serious plot, while "About Schmidt" is a dark tale of quiet desparation and self-reflection with some offbeat humor mixed in. It's a good thing there are some laughs here too, or I might have wound up trying to hang myself with my belt after I first saw the movie. Most of the humor to be found come from Dermot Mulroney's clueless Randall and, of course, Kathy Bates as Randall's mildly deranged motormouth of a mother. Bates practically steals the show during her limited screen time, as her character's sincerity, her brutal honesty, and above all her tendency to reveal excessive details provides a much-needed counterpoint to Nicholson's reserve and bitterness.

While I'll be the first to admit that "About Schmidt" isn't an easy movie to watch, it's not supposed to be. What makes this such a rewarding movie is the challenge of watching such a thoroughly unremarkable man for two hours, following along with his path through despair, self-discovery, and ultimately a measure of redemption. Sure, Warren Schmidt's just a retired geezer from Nebraska, but his sufferings are more universal than they may appear at first. Warren's experiences make for such fascinating viewing precisely because there are so many people like him out there.

Devastatingly Sad and Darkly Humorous
Many critics unfairly compare "About Schmidt" to Alexander Payne's previous film "Election." Both movies are completely different and appeal to different people and tastes. "Schmidt" is more grown-up, more human, and less accessible and commercial. It is Payne's masterpiece.

Jack Nicholson, in one of his all-time best performances, plays a recent retiree who goes through an end-of-life crisis. His wife dies and his daughter is marrying an idiot, played with comedic brilliance by Dermot Mulroney. He hops in his Winnebago and drives across the United States to have his say. Nicholson is a tired old man who doesn't want to give up on life quite yet, and in a last show of defiance and nonconformity, he tries to stop the wedding.

"Schmidt," to some, is an unrelenting Prozac festival. But if you have a taste for black comedy, and enjoy watching ordinary people fail miserably and make jackasses out of themselves, as well as appreciate good drama, "Schmidt" is your type of movie. It's true, most of the film is sad. But there are moments -- especially when Nicholson shows up at Kathy Bates's house and has to endure her completely dysfunctional brood -- of comedic genius.

If that's not enough to convince you, watch it for Nicholson's performance alone. Oftentimes in his long spanning career, Nicholson has resorted to playing mockeries of his public persona -- flashing those eyebrows and exploding that smile of his. But in "Schmidt" he appropriately plays the role of an old defeated man. You won't even know it's him. He seems to have aged an additional 67 years just to play this role, and it's inspiring. It's also a lesson that, no matter how old you are, there's no reason to give up on your hopes and dreams -- just make sure you're not trying to topple the Berlin Wall alone.

Sad and funny. Bitter and cynical. "About Schmidt" has it all, including some of the most unforgettable elderly characters ever portrayed on screen.

what?!
what is wrong with these reviewers? one person says that it's funny, the next person says that it's depressing. one of the top reviewers said that it's a film meant only for jack nicholson fans, yet i couldn't disagree any more.

my guess is this. the family goes to blockbuster to rent a movie, and they see "about schmidt." though the movie is found in the drama section, the view of the majority is that it's another one of the infamous "crazy person" nicholson roles, making for a "blisteringly funny" comedy .. or at least a good show. then, what do you know? the movie turns out to be a bummer. however, it's only because the expectation was not met.

this is not a film for jack nicholson fans. one reviewer made this comment: "By far the tiredest, lamest movie I have ever seen. I've never been Jack's biggest fan, but this is sooooooo bad. I can't believe he did this. Go get Anger Management instead." see what i am saying?! this reviewer wanted the crazy, psycho, FUNNY jack nicholson. when he or she met a retired, secluded, and very off base man trying to find meaning in life, they gave up on the film. it's obvious that they wanted something more along the lines of adam sandler's work (with the exception of punch-drunk love) than a serious film.

now, on to other things. one reviewer stated that jack nicholson ends up playing the same role over and over again, the (and i quote) "crusty curmudgeon with a heart of gold." how off target could one be? one gets the feeling in this movie that jack is heartless - he has little passion for his marriage, he wants to keep his own daughter from marrying, and the only thing he seems to do right in the entire movie is send money to a starving kid in a third world country. sounds like a pure heart of gold to me... not.really.

so, if you've made it this far in my review, you may be asking yourself what one is to make of this movie, and i will gladly tell you.

depressing, yes. long-winded, most definitely. however, that's not why i'm giving this movie 5 stars. if one can look past their short attention span and stick with the movie, one will find that this movie is extremely rewarding. the message of the film was one of... don't let the smallest things go unnoticed in your life, for even they hold rewards. at the very end of the movie, nicholson finds himself face to face with the "painting" of two people holding hands. my interpretation of this is that nicholson is a rich man if only for the fact that he touched someone who was in need. walking away from this movie, i am keeping with me the thought that every little detail of our sometimes miserable life is extremely important.

this movie almost got a 4 star rating for its drawn-out length and for the fact that it's very depressing if not viewed with an attentive spirit. however, i gave this movie 5 stars because it has left me with a desire to make more of myself as a human being. through the almost destructible solemnity of this film, i came out with a greater appreciation and understanding for every single thing that i do. and that is what filmmaking is truly about. ... Read more

Amazon.com

With Sideways, Paul Giamatti (American Splendor, Storytelling) has become an unlikely but engaging romantic lead. Struggling novelist and wine connoisseur Miles (Giamatti) takes his best friend Jack (Thomas Haden Church, Wings) on a wine-tasting tour of California vineyards for a kind of extended bachelor party. Almost immediately, Jack's insatiable need to sow some wild oats before his marriage leads them in into double-dates with a rambunctious wine pourer (Sandra Oh, Under the Tuscan Sun) and a recently divorced waitress (Virginia Madsen, The Hot Spot)--and Miles discovers a little hope that he hasn't let himself feel in a long time. Sideways is a modest but finely tuned film; with gentle compassion, it explores the failures, struggles, and lowered expectations of mid-life. Giamatti makes regret and self-loathing sympathetic, almost sweet. From the director of Election and About Schmidt. --Bret Fetzer ... Read more

Description

Warren Schmidt (Nicholson) is about to taste a not so sweet slice of life. When he retired, he and his wife Helen had big plans, but an unexpected twist changed everything. Now, all of Schmidt's attention is focused his daughter's upcoming wedding to a loser waterbed salesman. From meeting hippie parents to sponsoring a Tanzanian foster child, Schmidt embarks on a search for answers...and discovers that life is full of trick questions. ... Read more

Reviews (289)

One of the best movies of all time
"About Schmidt" is, simply put, a milestone in American cinema. Coming off "Election," which was quite possibly the funniest movie of all time, director Alexander Payne delivered another classic here, but one of a different stripe. With Jack Nicholson delivering a performance that's somehow both low-key and passionate, this character study relentlessly examines the darker side of human existence, plumbing the depths of despair and hopelessness. However, the central character isn't a serial killer, a sex offender, or some similar paragon of depravity. Instead, he's a quiet, 66-year-old newly retired actuary from Nebraska named Warren Schmidt. That's what really makes this movie so depressing: someday, maybe not too far off, any of us could wind up like this movie's antihero, retired, widowed, and feeling useless.

Alexander Payne's portrait of Midwestern suburban life is almost unrelentingly bleak, following its main character around and focusing on all the tiny indignities that steadily pile up on him. The relentlessly self-analytical Warren has examined his life in search of some higher purpose, and he's come up lacking. Looking back he can see only missed opportunities and pointless toil, and looking ahead he only glimpses loneliness and impending death. He has only two things left that give his life any semblance of meaning: his attempts to prevent his beloved daughter from marrying a mulleted, fu-manchued waterbed salesman named Randall; and Ndugu, the Tanzanian orphan whom he starts supporting financially early in the movie. Warren's letters to Ndugu serve as a perfect framing device, providing a window to the internal conflicts that roil beneath his quiet exterior.

Since the monstrous shadow of "Election" looms over this movie for its entire two hours, comparisons are all but inevitable, and I might as well make mine now. Both movies are allegorical tales set in white-bread Nebraska locales, but "Election" is a screwball comedy anchored by a serious plot, while "About Schmidt" is a dark tale of quiet desparation and self-reflection with some offbeat humor mixed in. It's a good thing there are some laughs here too, or I might have wound up trying to hang myself with my belt after I first saw the movie. Most of the humor to be found come from Dermot Mulroney's clueless Randall and, of course, Kathy Bates as Randall's mildly deranged motormouth of a mother. Bates practically steals the show during her limited screen time, as her character's sincerity, her brutal honesty, and above all her tendency to reveal excessive details provides a much-needed counterpoint to Nicholson's reserve and bitterness.

While I'll be the first to admit that "About Schmidt" isn't an easy movie to watch, it's not supposed to be. What makes this such a rewarding movie is the challenge of watching such a thoroughly unremarkable man for two hours, following along with his path through despair, self-discovery, and ultimately a measure of redemption. Sure, Warren Schmidt's just a retired geezer from Nebraska, but his sufferings are more universal than they may appear at first. Warren's experiences make for such fascinating viewing precisely because there are so many people like him out there.

Facing the "golden" years with sorrow.
"About Schmidt" is a wonderful movie starring the great Jack Nicholson, who plays the hapless retiree, Warren Schmidt. Warren lives in Omaha, Nebraska, and he is put out to pasture after a long career with an insurance company. Warren hates retirement, for which he is ill-prepared. In addition, Helen, Warren's wife of forty-two years, irritates him with her annoying habits and idiosyncrasies. Worst of all, Jeannie, Warren's beloved only child, is engaged to a man whom Warren cannot stand.

When Warren suddenly becomes a widower, he takes stock of his life, and he is appalled at how empty it is. In desperation, Warren starts to write rambling letters to his Tanzanian foster child, Ndugu. (Warren sends the child twenty-two dollars a month in response to a television appeal). Even though Ndugu is six years old and cannot read, Warren pours his heart into these letters as a means of venting his anger and frustration.

Alexander Payne, who directed "About Schmidt" and shares credit for writing the fine screenplay, has done a commendable job of eliciting strong performances from an excellent cast. Kathy Bates is a hoot as Jeannie's future mother-in-law, and both Len Cariou and Howard Hesseman shine in small roles. The film, however, belongs to Jack Nicholson, who appears in practically every frame.

Nicholson acts with his entire body. He does wonders with a raised eyebrow, a half-smile, a gesture or a glance. In one hilarious scene, Nicholson does battle with a waterbed and loses. Nicholson captures the very essence of Warren Schmidt, a man who will never be ready for the first day of the rest of his life. Don't miss "About Schmidt" if you want to see one of the best performances of this or any year.

Devastatingly Sad and Darkly Humorous
Many critics unfairly compare "About Schmidt" to Alexander Payne's previous film "Election." Both movies are completely different and appeal to different people and tastes. "Schmidt" is more grown-up, more human, and less accessible and commercial. It is Payne's masterpiece.

Jack Nicholson, in one of his all-time best performances, plays a recent retiree who goes through an end-of-life crisis. His wife dies and his daughter is marrying an idiot, played with comedic brilliance by Dermot Mulroney. He hops in his Winnebago and drives across the United States to have his say. Nicholson is a tired old man who doesn't want to give up on life quite yet, and in a last show of defiance and nonconformity, he tries to stop the wedding.

"Schmidt," to some, is an unrelenting Prozac festival. But if you have a taste for black comedy, and enjoy watching ordinary people fail miserably and make jackasses out of themselves, as well as appreciate good drama, "Schmidt" is your type of movie. It's true, most of the film is sad. But there are moments -- especially when Nicholson shows up at Kathy Bates's house and has to endure her completely dysfunctional brood -- of comedic genius.

If that's not enough to convince you, watch it for Nicholson's performance alone. Oftentimes in his long spanning career, Nicholson has resorted to playing mockeries of his public persona -- flashing those eyebrows and exploding that smile of his. But in "Schmidt" he appropriately plays the role of an old defeated man. You won't even know it's him. He seems to have aged an additional 67 years just to play this role, and it's inspiring. It's also a lesson that, no matter how old you are, there's no reason to give up on your hopes and dreams -- just make sure you're not trying to topple the Berlin Wall alone.

Sad and funny. Bitter and cynical. "About Schmidt" has it all, including some of the most unforgettable elderly characters ever portrayed on screen.

what?!
what is wrong with these reviewers? one person says that it's funny, the next person says that it's depressing. one of the top reviewers said that it's a film meant only for jack nicholson fans, yet i couldn't disagree any more.

my guess is this. the family goes to blockbuster to rent a movie, and they see "about schmidt." though the movie is found in the drama section, the view of the majority is that it's another one of the infamous "crazy person" nicholson roles, making for a "blisteringly funny" comedy .. or at least a good show. then, what do you know? the movie turns out to be a bummer. however, it's only because the expectation was not met.

this is not a film for jack nicholson fans. one reviewer made this comment: "By far the tiredest, lamest movie I have ever seen. I've never been Jack's biggest fan, but this is sooooooo bad. I can't believe he did this. Go get Anger Management instead." see what i am saying?! this reviewer wanted the crazy, psycho, FUNNY jack nicholson. when he or she met a retired, secluded, and very off base man trying to find meaning in life, they gave up on the film. it's obvious that they wanted something more along the lines of adam sandler's work (with the exception of punch-drunk love) than a serious film.

now, on to other things. one reviewer stated that jack nicholson ends up playing the same role over and over again, the (and i quote) "crusty curmudgeon with a heart of gold." how off target could one be? one gets the feeling in this movie that jack is heartless - he has little passion for his marriage, he wants to keep his own daughter from marrying, and the only thing he seems to do right in the entire movie is send money to a starving kid in a third world country. sounds like a pure heart of gold to me... not.really.

so, if you've made it this far in my review, you may be asking yourself what one is to make of this movie, and i will gladly tell you.

depressing, yes. long-winded, most definitely. however, that's not why i'm giving this movie 5 stars. if one can look past their short attention span and stick with the movie, one will find that this movie is extremely rewarding. the message of the film was one of... don't let the smallest things go unnoticed in your life, for even they hold rewards. at the very end of the movie, nicholson finds himself face to face with the "painting" of two people holding hands. my interpretation of this is that nicholson is a rich man if only for the fact that he touched someone who was in need. walking away from this movie, i am keeping with me the thought that every little detail of our sometimes miserable life is extremely important.

this movie almost got a 4 star rating for its drawn-out length and for the fact that it's very depressing if not viewed with an attentive spirit. however, i gave this movie 5 stars because it has left me with a desire to make more of myself as a human being. through the almost destructible solemnity of this film, i came out with a greater appreciation and understanding for every single thing that i do. and that is what filmmaking is truly about.

God, what a depressing movie
What a depressing and movie. I kept watching it hoping that at some pivotal point in the movie Schmidt would have some revelation and find some purpose. Well it kind of comes at the very end but is still real lame with the reading of a letter from a Sister at his sponsored childs home. The movie drags on for over 2 hours showing a depressing man leading a boring, depressing life. There is no character development, and at the end of the movie you wondered what the purpose of the whole film was. I can never decide if it was supposed to be a comedy or a drama. The few funny moments are overshadowed by the dark and depressing tone of the whole movie. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Playboy - Inside Out 1
This is worth it, if only for the short directed by Alexander Payne (Election). It's hysterically funny! In it a woman drifts into sleep while fantasizing about numerous oddball men coming into her room and doing things to her (such as pouring cream corn over her body). Great work! If you're only into the "erotica" though, you may as well look elsewhere. The only originality here comes from Mr. Payne's sharp wit. ... Read more