Review of Sideways (2004) by Danielle U — 07 Jan 2012

With a lead character that some could have seen as overly morose and withdrawn from the world, this film could have fallen flat on its backside if the casting had not been as spot on as it was. With Paul Giamatti plays the filmâ(TM)s protagonist, Miles, to sheer perfection making him just like his characterâ(TM)s favorite wine, Pinot: thin skinned, temperamental, and in need of care and attention.

In order for him to really flourish and grow he needs to have someone who is patient and nurturing and can understand his potential, then he can be coaxed into his full expression of himself which he isnâ(TM)t getting from his current relationships, such as the one he has with his best friend Jack (played by Thomas Haden Church).

Throughout the course of the film the audience comes to find out that Miles has been though quite a lot over the last few years and is still not happy since heâ(TM)s now inevitably at the mercy of his friend Jackâ(TM)s whims on the vacation, their last hurrah, celebrating Jackâ(TM)s forthcoming nuptials.

With a great story and believable characters, this is funny, sweet, and endearing film that is truly full of flavor.