Sideways: Sideways is one of those films that sneaks up on you. On the surface, it’s about a bloke

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Sideways: Sideways is one of those films that sneaks up on you. On the surface, it’s about a bloke

Sideways: Sideways is one of those films that sneaks up on you. On the surface, it’s about a bloke

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NOV 29, 2024

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Sideways

Movie by Alexander Payne · 2004

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Sideways is one of those films that sneaks up on you. On the surface, it’s about a bloke (Miles) and his mate (Jack) on a road trip through California’s wine country before Jack’s wedding.

Paul Giamatti, as Miles, is just brilliant. When is he ever not amazing? He’s so perfectly awkward and neurotic, but also really quite vulnerable. You'd feel the pain about his failed dreams and his fear of being stuck. It’s relatable, and Giamatti nails it with that understated, dry humour that makes you laugh, even when you probably shouldn’t.

Then you’ve got Thomas Haden Church as Jack, who’s the opposite—charming, a bit of a lad, and always one step away from getting himself into trouble. The way the two of them bounce off each other is great. It’s funny in a way that feels real, not forced. Like when you’re out with a friend and it’s awkward and hilarious all at once.

What I love about this film is that it doesn’t try too hard. It’s not one of those shouty comedies with big gags—there’s a real quietness to it, and the humour comes from these subtle, awkward moments that feel like life itself. And yeah, it has this bittersweet edge, because you’re watching these characters struggle with things like love, failure, and getting older. But it’s all done with so much heart. It’s the kind of film you can’t help but feel a bit warm towards by the end—even if you’ve had a few laughs at their expense. If you’re after something a bit different, where the humour is dry and the performances are spot on, give Sideways a go. It’s a proper gem.

DEC 2, 2024