Review of Win Win (2011) by Jacob B — 17 Sep 2011

I'm beginning to believe that Paul Giamatti is incapable of giving a bad performance. From American Splendor to Sideways to Cinderella Man, Giamatti is becoming the quintessential lovable loser, and the big screen is grateful. In Win Win, he delivers another solid performance as Mike Flaherty, an attorney struggling through our challenging times while maintaining a family and coaching his high school's wrestling team.

Fortunately, Giamatti is balanced by strong performances from Amy Madigan, Alex Shaffer, and others. The supporting cast is driven by Flaherty's actions, which seem to have the best intentions but always have consequences. I agree with others who say that the writer/director, Tom McCarthy, does well at developing all the characters. While I don't foresee any Oscar nominations (the best actor field looks packed this year), I wouldn't be surprised if Win Win wins a screenplay nod.