In this politically incorrect yet poignant morality tale, adapted from Mordecai Richler's final novel, Golden Globe-winner Paul Giamatti shines as a pudgy, boozing, curmudgeonly TV producer who's extraordinarily proficient at messing up his life. After the publication of a tell-all book that dredges up his past, Barney Panofsky (Giamatti) reflects on his life in this picaresque confessional tale that spans two continents, four decades, and three marriages. Back in the early 1970s, while producing a movie in Rome, Barney impregnates blonde bohemian Clara (Rachelle Lefevre) and dutifully marries her, but things go awry. Returning home to Montreal, Barney next weds his screeching second wife (Minnie Driver, in a nameless role), a wealthy Jewish princess; but at their wedding reception he discovers the true love of his life, an elegant, ethereal woman named Miriam (Rosamund Pike), who eventually becomes his third spouse. At Barney's side throughout his misadventures is his irascible father (Dustin Hoffman), and his drug-addicted best friend Boogie (Scott Speedman). Directed by Richard J. Lewis, the film is drenched with a richly dark comedic atmosphere, and features cameos by directors David Cronenberg and Atom Egoyan, while Jake Hoffman (whose real-life dad is Dustin) plays Barney's son. But it's Giamatti's savvy performance that's most memorable, evoking memories of Richard Dreyfuss in the 1974 screen version of another Richler novel, The Apprenticeship of Duddy Kravitz. Recommended. [Note: Blu-ray extras include audio commentary (by director Richard J. Lewis, writer Michael Konyves, and producer Robert Lantos), a Q&A with star Paul Giamatti at the 92nd Street Y in Manhattan with Reel Pieces host Annette Insdorf (35 min.), a behind-the scenes featurette (11 min.), a premiere featurette (4 min.), an archival interview with writer Mordecai Richler (3 min.), trailers, a bonus DVD copy of the film, and the BD-Live function. Bottom line: a solid extras package for a winning film.] (S. Granger)
Barney's Version
Sony, 134 min., R, Blu-ray/DVD Combo: $38.98, June 28 Volume 26, Issue 3
Barney's Version
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