Sideways
Dir: Alexander Payne
2006
*****
Sideways is perfectly pitched dry comedy from the king of perfectly pitched dry comedies, Alexander Payne. I find it hard to think of any worthy alternatives that could have been cast instead of Paul Giamatti and Thomas Haden Church, their performances are spot on. Like all of Alexander Payne's films, the balance of drama and comedy is just right, both working in contrast and unison perfectly. I also feel quite strongly about Merlot and am often caught quoting this film in restaurants much to my Wife's embarrassment.