So, why don't I test out this much maligned new RT journal with a review? Good idea...

SIDEWAYS (Alexander Payne, 2004) -- 2nd viewing

The most important thing that elevates Sideways is its humanity compared to other comedy films. Where many comedies let characters fall into archetypes or stereotypes, some well and some very badly, Sideways propels itself as a character driven story with a side-helping of humor. As opposed to most modern comedies, which delve out the humor and expect the story to come after.

Miles is such a rich character played by Giamatti very effectively with an appropriate mix of hysteria and subtlety. He is the emotional core of the film and propels it forward. Thomas Hayden Church, who plays Jack, Miles' old-college friend whom he is taking out on a trip before Jack gets married. Jack is the source of a lot of humor and is believed to be a shallow grown-up frat-boy. His arrogance and naivety off-sets Miles' morose attitude and down-trodden outlook. However Jack hints at evolving past this shallowness later in the film. Sandra Oh and Virgina Madsen, who play two California WIne-Country locals who become the source of sexual interest of Jack and the reluctant romantic interest of Miles. Oh's character is rather flat but Madsen's character, Maya, compliments the film beautifully--both contrasting and complimenting Miles' emotional plights.

The crafting of the film is very warm and subtle. This film feels like it was loved from beginning to end. This was a labor of love, which compliments the themes of the film very well.

I highly recommend this film.

9/10