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From Alexander Payne comes an outstanding and impeccably performed film, that is poignant, deeply funny, tragic and truthful, with some consistent moments of wit as well. Sideways also gets my pick as the best film of 2004, and there were a few strong films that year, however it was this film that touched me the most.
For one thing, it looks beautiful. The cinematography is stunning and the scenery is wonderfully picturesque. The music is lovely, while the direction is faultless. I also loved how engaging the story was, and how fresh it was as well, while the script is both moving and funny. As far as I could see, there were no pacing problems, it may start slow, but the quality of everything else left me transfixed.
The acting is absolutely astonishing. Paul Giamatti is brilliant as Miles, a teacher full of nervous self-loathing, while Thomas Haden Church is excellent as Jack, a deliciously deadpan sort of character who provides the laughs. Miles is the more likable character of the two I agree as you feel genuinely for him, while Virginia Madsen's character is the most likable in the film, and speaking of Virginia Madsen she was delightful in this film.
Overall, an outstanding film, nothing wrong with it as far as I could see. 10/10 Bethany Cox
10/10
