Greenberg

Ben Stiller takes a change of pace from the usual big budget comedies he normally does to do a small independent comedy/drama.

Writer/director Noah Baumbach is excellent at creating very believable characters tat get involved in real situations. Generally there is very little plot and is more about the characters and how they deal with situations that arise. Roger Greenberg is definitely an interesting character. A crisis has occurred in his life that has meant he has become a bit aimless. Most people would not let a minor set back like that harm them but Roger is different. It his through his relationships with and old friend and a new friend that we learn about him. It is through his friendship with Ivan that we learn what his life used to be like. How one dumb move made him bitter. Roger is quite an unpleasant character and treats some of his friends badly. He is kind of punishing himself and takes it out on his friends too. He does though find someone who likes him and has a romance with Florence, and it is through this relationship that he learns to become a better person. Noah has once again crafted interesting characters and makes you think they really exist. His documentary directing style adds to the authenticity.

I am a fan of Ben Stiller and really admire how he does other jobs besides acting. I also admire how he can show he is more than just a big time comedy actor by doing more dramatic films like this. This is sort of a comedy but not the broad type your used to seeing Ben do. He has to really show his dramatic skills. I really liked his in this film and think it is one of his best performances. This will certainly be a breakout role for Greta Gerwig who is wonderful as Florence. She gives a wonderfully sweet performance. Rhys Ifans is normally known for wacky characters that he plays in other films. So it is nice to see him play someone more real and he is excellent.

While there is very little plot here it should not matter when there is such great characters to watch. Worth seeing for those who only know Ben Stiller for his broad comedies.