Review of The Squid and the Whale (2005) by Timothy C — 22 Sep 2008

Baumbach is a fine director, always getting fine performances from his actors and writing dialogue that is both memorable and realistic. The problem is that I don't like any of his characters, or the situations he creates. I don't relate to them, and I wouldn't want to be around them. And, yes, that's the point, and there's no denying that it's an honest and realistic film that's probably close to his own experiences - but that doesn't change the fact that I didn't enjoy watching it one bit.

Others will probably find it poignant and profound, but for me it was simply repulsive - even as I recognize Baumbach's talent as a director and writer.