Review of Greenberg (2010) by Temple R — 15 Feb 2011

Upon my first viewing of "Greenberg," I thought it was a decent but forgetable work that Ben Stiller would do well not to revisit. However, the more I think about this movie, the better it gets. I find myself repeatedly watching it whenever it comes on cable. I've narrowed down three reasons why:

1. This is Ben Stiller's "Punch Drunk Love." Whereas Sandler blew his chance at legitimacy with PDL, Stiller carved out his place at the acting table with "Greenberg." His character is loathsome but his inner pain registers with every horrible meltdown. Few can make such an asshole so sympathetic.

2. Greta Gerwig. Every once in a while, some unknown actor comes out of nowhere and establishes him/herself as one of the best around. She pulled it off in this movie. This young woman has a huge ceiling and potential to be another Laura Linney or Amy Ryan type that always delivers a strong performance in everything she does. Let's hope she stays consistent.

3. I have an affinity for movies and books that explore the difference between the way things are and the way things should be. Most leave the characters either blissfully ignorant of the dichotomy to the great amusement of the audience or they are brought to a gradual realization that inspires a sudden and predictable change. In "Greenberg", everyone is aware of the dichotomy at some level but steadfastly refuses to acknowledge it. When it is acknowledged, it's unclear as to what the characters do with it. The movie gives no easy answers and leaves without the standard closure and leaves the audience to ponder the fate of the characters.

In short, see it.