Sideways (2004) - 2nd time

Nominated for 5 Academy Awards:

Best Picture

Best Director: Alexander Payne

Best Supporting Actor: Thomas Haden Church

Best Supporting Actress: Virginia Madsen

Best Adapted Screenplay (WON)

 

Me, I don’t drink alcohol, but if you love wine, I guess you’ll like this film more than the average person. First, because wine is such a major element of the plot, and secondly, because the film feels both informative and instructive on how to enjoy it.

As a film, it has its flaws. Giamatti’s acting is good and all, but the character is still dislikeable by the end of it, and while there is a character arc, and he’s evolving, there’s an overall lack of appeal for this man’s story. Thomas Haden Church does a lot of the heavy lifting, bringing the fun and the ease, and I guess he should’ve won the Oscar for this charismatic and convincing performance as a sex addict, but how could they have denied Morgan Freeman the win? To me, Virginia Madsen IS a bit overrated, though she’s good and right for the part. Sideways is an easy watch and funny at times.

 

I give it: 7.5/10

IMDB LINK