Sideways

For several months now, I've been staring at a DVD I borrowed and hadn't yet watched; 'Sideways'. I was pleasantly surprised when I (finally) decided to watch it earlier today. It's a subtle film in many ways, and not-so-subtle in others, but enjoyable nonetheless. The film has a relentless melancholy which was brought to bear by the substantial acting chops of Paul Giamatti, who is at his heart-wrenching best in several scenes -- particularly near the end of the film when he dines alone at a local fast food joint.

If you are interested in a really smart, hip little film which oozes humanity, this should be your top pick. Wine enthusiasts will also have some interest in the underlying plot and how it relates to the central themes of personal evolution and redemption.