Sideways (2004)

"Sideways" was released in 2004 and was directed and co-written by Alexander Payne (The Descendants, co-producer of the HBO series Hung). The film follows wine aficionado and struggling writer Miles as he takes his best friend, Jack, on a trip through the vineyards of California days before he is to be married. Miles is expecting a quiet trip of drinking and tasting new wine but Jack has other ideas. 

I didn't expect much from this film going in but I came out with a huge smile on my face. This film is funny and has a big heart. Paul Giamatti gives a very underrated performance as Miles, a man down on himself and trying to deal with his "kind-of" recent divorce. Thomas Haden Church was nominated for best supporting actor for his portrayal of Jack, Miles soon to be wed and unpredictable companion. They are a perfect fit for each other and work well as an "odd couple".

I work in a wine store and this film can certainly inform people about wine. It makes you want to grab a bottle and try it. However, the wine in the film is a metaphor for the characters. Wine ages and as it ages, it gets better and better until it peaks. When it peaks it starts its slow but steady decline. These characters are going through what the wine is going through. But they learn that unlike a bottle of wine, they can overcome their decline. 

"Sideways" is a lot of fun. It's a simple film with complex characters; my favorite. Hope you enjoy and please let me know what you think. 

Here's the IMDB page:
http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0375063/
Here's the trailer:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YS9ocP6FNvM