Review of Punch-Drunk Love (2002) by Matthew K — 22 Sep 2012

Paul Thomas Anderson writes and directs his most minimalist film still to date and creates a beautiful portrait of love. Adam Sandler stars as Barry Egan, a man child who owns his own plunger business and who seems to have terrible social skills.

It probably comes from the fact that he has seven sisters who harass him and treat him terribly. Barry is not happy with his life but is alright simply coasting through it. That is until he meets one of his sister's friends named Lena (Emily Watson).

The two instantly seem to hit it off and create a beautiful yet awkward couple. At the same time, Barry is trying to stop himself from being extorted by a phone sex operator who is trying to get money from him after he innocently calls her line simply to just talk to someone.

What does not help in all of this is Barry's anger problems with show up at random points, yet they empower him as well. Adam Sandler has never done a better acting job. In some extent he is perfectly cast for the role.

Most of Sandler's characters are man children but are caricatures and over the top. This movie takes a man child who is more realistic and grounded in reality. Watson is also great as Lena and her chemistry with Sandler is great.

While this may not be Paul Thomas Anderson's greatest films, it is still a solid film that shows that PTA can work with a smaller cast and on a smaller scale.