Sideways
Lissa Coffey
Grade: C-
| I really wanted to like this movie. I liked the previews. And I like to support independent film. The story is good – but where the whole thing fell apart for me is that the two lead characters are just so darn unlikable. Paul Giamatti plays this kind of sad-sack loser who just can’t get his life together. You would feel sorry for him except he makes such bad decisions it’s no wonder he’s in his situation. His sidekick is played by Thomas Haden Church (he was the mechanic on the TV series “Wings” years ago), an out of work former soap star with issues of his own. They’re on a road trip, and it’s just not all that fun.
The wine and wineries featured have a co-starring role, but it was a little heavy-handed, making me feel like these characters were alcoholics rather than true connoisseurs. Interesting premise, but could have been so much better. |