Sideways (2004) Movie Info
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Movie Name | Sideways (2004) |
| Director | Alexander Payne |
| Screenplay Writer | Alexander Payne, Jim Taylor |
| Based on Novel by | Rex Pickett (Sideways) |
| Lead Actors | Paul Giamatti, Thomas Haden Church, Virginia Madsen |
| Cast | Paul Giamatti, Thomas Haden Church, Virginia Madsen, Sandra Oh, Marylouise Burke, Jessica Hecht, Missy Doty |
| Genre | Comedy, Drama |
| Release Date | October 22, 2004 (United States) |
| Duration | 2h 7m (127 minutes) |
| Budget | ~$16 million |
| Language | English |
| Country | United States |
| Box Office (Worldwide) | ~$109.8 million |
WATCH NOW
Summary
Classic buddy tale about two best friends who embark on a week long bachelor party. The main character, a wine enthusiast and wannabe novelist (Paul Giamatti), battles his own inner demons and twisted realities while simultaneously witnessing the breakdown of his free-living but decidedly self destructive friend. (Thomas Haden Church) Sideways is at times tragic but mostly hilarious. Giamatti delivers an impeccable and tight performance certain to be remembered for a long time.
Review
What do you get when you combine strong acting and succinct and refreshing directing with straight and honest writing? What you get is 2004s Sideways. The astonishingly funny film about two best buddies who attempt to discover who they are during a week-long hiatus from everyday life. This can only happen in the context of a best-friend relationship where judgment is consumed by loyalty. You may not agree with what your friend does but he is your friend nonetheless and that trumps all. Sideways captures this spirit and encapsulates it.
Jack (Church) is about to get married and takes a trip with his buddy, Miles (Giamatti), to California wine country. Miles is there to send his friend off. Jack only wants to get laid. Jack knows that his pal has issues and warns him not to go to the dark side. Miles also has suspicions about Jacks stability. Despite Miles warnings, Jack ends up getting involved with Stephanie (Sandra Oh). Her friend, Maya (Virginia Madsen), takes a liking to Miles. Through the maelstrom of the week long trip, Miles and Maya attempt to build a relationship that centers on philosophical musings and expensive wines.
In the end, Jacks exploits catch up with him. Miles witnesses the true nature of his friends malady while realizing the failings of his own life. Miles skips the wedding reception and drinks his prized bottle of wine in solitude. Sideways allows you to consider the frailties of your own existence vicariously through the shortcomings of its characters.
Also Watch
