Sideways - 9 or 10 out of 10
Definitely my favorite Alexander Payne film thus far. I just love how Payne takes the middle class American and puts them in an environment where believable drama and humor can be seen. Nine years later and this film holds up. Not to mention a great screenplay and Giamatti and Church are absolutely terrific together. It was screened last night at the reopening of the Drydon theater in its original 35 mm print from its third run nine years ago. It looked pretty damn great for it being nine years old. But it was nice seeing a film print again.
Payne, author Rex Pickett and co-writer Jim Taylor were there for a Q&A. All three very nice and down to Earth guys. Guys you'd want to have a drink with. Got their autographs and a picture with them too. Got some cool stories out of them too like Jurassic Park 3. Not to mention I met Robert Forster, who was very nice and funny as well.
Man, what an awesome experience.