Sideways

While I found "Sideways" to be an enjoyable film, I don't know that it belongs in the Best Picture Oscar nomination category with movies such as "The Aviator" and "Finding Neverland". This seems to be one of those movies that critics have latched onto for its great storytelling done in such a simplistic way.

Paul Giamatti (shockingly overlooked for a Lead Actor nomination) stars as Miles, a down-on-his-luck middle-aged man trying to succeed as an author. His Charlie Brown-type character is truly the heart of the film. Miles and his best friend Jack (Thomas Haden Church) set out on a weeklong trip to wine country for one last blowout before Jack gets married. Not only do the guys sample a lot of wine over the course of the week, but they also encounter Maya (Virginia Madsen) and Stephanie (Sandra Oh). Miles and Maya had met previously, each keeping their feelings for the other to themselves. For as hesitant as they are to pursue their relationship, Jack and Stephanie jump right in, to the point that Jack is declaring his love for her by the end of the week. Oh, yes, both men have not mentioned Jack's impending wedding.

For as much as each character in "Sideways" is learning about wine, they also learn more about themselves. Miles wants success and love, yet can't convince himself that he's worthy of either. Jack has been a successful actor and is about to marry into a very wealthy family with a woman he loves, but can't convince himself to settle. Maya and Stephanie are the victims of the uncertainty of both men.

On the surface "Sideways" is a simple story of two men figuring out their lives. But just as we learn about the differences in cultivating grapes for Pinot and Chardonnay, we witness a character study about a group of adults just wanting to find love. In one particular scene, Miles explains to Maya why he finds the pinot noir grape so fascinating. The character comparison is clear, and very touching.

"Sideways" bills itself as a comedy, yet comes across more as a light-hearted drama. Every performance is outstanding. And don't get me wrong, I did enjoy the movie itself. But, sticking with the wine theme, "Sideways" could be compared to an expensive bottle of wine drank by someone who can't tell the difference between Franzia and Mondavi. You'll enjoy it, but in the end wonder what all the fuss is about. I give it a B.

"Sideways" is rated R with a running time of 2 hours.