About Schmidt

This film gives a glimpse into the life of a man with few redeeming features. Even so, Nicholson injects his character with such humour and pathos that you can't help but like him. He proves here that he can act without his usual flamboyance - the camera is often directed at his face, straight on for several long seconds, and no words are needed to convey his emotions. There's not much of a plot to speak of but the focus is on one man's personal journey. It's a fine balance between the comedy and drama and I think for the most part, it succeeds. Bates is never disappointing in anything she does and her performance in this film is just priceless. Too bad my enjoyment of the movie was diminished by the running commentary of the woman behind me. Some people need to learn that the theatre is not their personal living room where they can talk as they please!