Review of Greenberg (2010) by Dan S — 25 Aug 2010

Story concerning a man (Ben Stiller) who has just been released from a mental institution and how he struggles to discover his identity while staying in his brother's house, and how he begins a relationship with his brother's personal assistant (Greta Gerwig).

Although it features the most nuanced performance captured by Mr. Stiller, this film feels rather aimless, not really in a rush to get anywhere important, while also trying to ignore the fact that its key supporting character (played by Greta Gerwig) is much more charming, lovable, and interesting than its lead character.

While the movie definitely succeeds in how it examines a very screwed up individual, it doesn't quite have the same comedic punch that another Baumbach feature (The Squid and the Whale) did to make it worthwhile, although many claim this is a "comedy", when I for one didn't really laugh that much.

The one thing I did like a lot about this movie is that although relationship between Stiller and Gerwig sometimes rings false, the one between Stiller and Rhys Ifans character is definitely convincing and ultimately tragic.

Still, if you're looking for a nice slice of Baumbach black comedy that does a better job at looking at a messed up person (or people, for that matter) - stick with The Squid and the Whale.