Sideways [Blu-ray]

The following describes the tasks performed to prepare for a reviewing of the film and the Blu Ray media format as well...The "Sideways" Blu Ray disc arrived at my house 'on' the day it was released (Amazon obviously obtained their allotment prior to the release date). But, I had to wait 2 weeks until everyone who was to participate in the viewing could attend. I do not yet have an HD setup, so one of the attendees' home was appropriated for the event.Most of the attendees had already seen the film at least once, and many had viewed it both in the theater and on regular DVD (during it's popular sales period, found on end-caps of the grocery store wine aisles).Since this was to be an HD viewing with the proper sound system attached, I strove to find a way to further enhance the proper atmosphere and moods for each scene. To accomplish that feat, I provided various types and qualities of wines to pair with the sequence of events throughout the film.There was of course much feasting prior to the start of the film, with snakkies consisting of smoked salmon, triple-cream brie, green grapes, and a variety of crackers.The wine selection started with what I thought would present a 'cheap' bland beverage, to accompany the visit to Mile's mothers home, but it turned out to be an excellent wine (2007 Gruner VELTLINER , pronounced with heavy German accent). Who would've thought that an $8 bottle of white wine, contained in what appears to be a green Tanqueray Gin bottle with a beer cap top, would turn out to be a favorite of the evening... (is there a hidden message in there somewhere ?)Once the evening and the film moved along, the wines progressed into the red variety, with Pinot Noir's presented at the appropriate moment, as well as (ironically) Merlot, just when it was stated that there shouldn't be any...At the end (when the C****l B***c is imbibed) I served a 2002 "Sarah's Blend" by the 'original' Marquis Phillips vineyard (a wine which represents one which 'I' take out for special occasions).Once the film viewing was completed, and several of the attendees had passed-out, I was able to contemplate the quality of the film and the new HD format it was presented in...The film "Sideways" itself, has already been reviewed by viewers extensively, with 'half' praising it, and the other denouncing it as either 'trash', 'boring' (no light sabers), or 'making no sense'. I would not argue with any of the points of view, since I've come to realize, that the movie as a whole, is itself an allegory to wine. No two people will get the same appreciation, perception, flavor, etc from a particular wine, and this film can be interpreted in so many ways, that everyone comes away with a different perspective as to the quality of the movie, as well as what the storyline really was...There are people who just do not like wine, and those who will just not like this film. Those that enjoy 'sweet', light, critter-labeled, wines, and may only see what's presented 'on the surface' in the movie, and those that taste something different in the same wine every time they serve it, and see a different aspect of the story every time they view the film. I myself thought the whole "Merlot" scene was a slight at that variety of wine, but now (after getting hints from other film reviews) see that it was just another allegory for a character in the movie (I won't reveal who). The more you watch "Sideways", the more you understand, and see how the nuances of the dialogue are like those of wine, which change as your pallet learns to discern them. Those who do not like the movie, probably never will. For those who think highly of the film, they will always find enjoyment from watching it again (especially with snakkies and wine).The only 'gripe' from those that complain about the movie, that I can understand, is that it is marketed and hinted-at to be an extreme comedy. Obviously this is not so.. I find the film to be very sad at times, with a general malange that mirrors Miles' general state of mind. There are 'cringe factor' moments and a non-glossing-over of the character's faults or actions, which, along with the attire of the characters, creates a realism which makes you believe that 'you' could be driving down route 101 through that region, and pass them walking along the road (heading to or from the hitching post).As for the Blu Ray format of the film... I was expecting better. Being a recent production, I had hoped that it was filmed in digital format from the start (was it ?), which should transfer to HD easily. Though the picture was clean, the only moment that it stood out was during the scene (with the gum) where both Miles and Jack hold up their wine glasses (at an angle to check for the water layer on the surface). I was able to judge the clarity, color and the water layer from my seat which was the furthest from the screen (10 feet from a 50" LCD). I've always felt that the quality of an HD video, as well as the equipment used to display it, was best illustrated by 'glass', 'liquid', and 'reflections'. The scene with the glasses held aloft had all three elements in view, and I could find no flaws.Needless to say, I had been drinking while viewing the film, which must be taken into consideration. I intend to watch it again (like many fans of the movie) with my soon-to-be superior HD environment, and will compare the Blu Ray release to the 'standard' DVD (which will be played in a 1080P uplifting drive).Perhaps I will then see yet another nuance to the film, or figure out why Miles doesn't like 'manipulated' Chardonnay's (I 'do').

Sideways was the perfect choice for our girls' Pinot Noir and movie night! The film's blend of humor and heartfelt moments kept us all entertained, and the beautiful scenery of wine country added to the charm. Watching it outside on the patio made for a lovely atmosphere, enhancing the experience even more.The characters are relatable and well-developed,(didn't like the cheating fiancé much) making us laugh and reflect on our own friendships and relationships. It was fun to sip our wine while enjoying the adventures and misadventures of the main characters.If you’re planning a cozy night in with friends, I highly recommend Sideways—it’s a delightful film that pairs perfectly with a good bottle of wine!

Rented this movie from Amazon videos just as much as when I saw it 20 years ago. Good entertainment, humorous, thought-provoking. An all round good time.

4 Stars. From the director of Election (1999), About Schmidt (2002), The Descendants (2011), and Nebraska (2013) comes another well-directed and acted story about human nature. Based on a book, the movie won the Academy Award for best Adapted Screenplay and earned nominations for Best Picture, Directing, Actor in Supporting Role (Thomas Haden Church), and Actress in Support Role (Virginia Madsen). Miles (Paul Giamatti) is a lonely writer, who has never gotten over his divorce three years ago. His book, based on personal details of his marriage, is being shopped around. He’s the best man for his old college friend and has been actor, Jack (Church). As lover of wine, Miles plans a week long getaway for them in the wine country north of LA with tastings and golf. Once they embark, things instantly turn sour. Miles is a borderline alcoholic, who drinks to forget the failed marriage that he still dwells upon and his poor career as a writer. Jack sets out to score a few more times before he ties the knot. Jack hooks up with a waitress, Stephanie (Sandra Oh), which strains his relationship with Miles. Jack spends the days with Stephanie against Miles approval, and Jack is sick of Miles’ constant drinking and dwelling on the pass. Stephanie helps set Miles up with Maya (Madsen), whom Miles had a crush on. Soon after Miles mentions to Maya that Jack is getting married, and things get worse. Funny and moving, this movie was surprise hit. All the characters were dealing with their own issues, which is why it is extremely human. Miles’ alcoholism was never really addressed in the end, as he downed his prize bottle of wine in a styrofoam cup at a fast food joint. It gave the movie an added edge along with the ending where it cuts on Miles knocking on Maya’s door. We never learn what happens, only that the characters have changed. The movie also impacted the wine industry, as Miles favored Pinot Noirs, where sales rose 16%, and hated Merlot, where sales dropped 2% that year. Throughout his career, Payne has always dealt with his unique brand of human comedy, and it’s most effective in this movie. It’s definitely worth checking out (again).

great movie

Le disque est en très bon état et la qualité du film est excellente.

First class acting with a super and funny plot.

parfait, livraison très rapide

ペーソスの映画です。作家デビューの夢を絶たれ、微かな希望だったお目当ての人からもきらわれ、自暴自棄になって、未練たらたらの元妻夫妻も招かれている親友の結婚式に無理やり出席し、案の定自らの現実を思い知らされ傷つく。耐えられず、とっさに乗ったボロボロの車で式場をひとり去るとき、一瞬右にハンドルを切るも、左折する俯瞰の演出が秀逸です。やけになり、大切な宝物だったはずのシュヴァルブランを、ハンバーガーショップに持ち込み、コソ泥のようにプラカップで呑む姿の郷愁。せこい花束を買って、一人暮らしの母親のヘソクリをちょろまかすときの心境。お目当ての店員が不在で深酒し、宿へ帰るときのへべれけの千鳥足。親友の財布を取り返しに他人の家へ忍び込み見つかって……。笑いとユーモア、美しい風景が八割の楽しいストーリー展開です。遠回りでもゆっくり育め。不器用で思う通りにならないからこその人生の喜怒哀楽を、カリフォルニアの広大なブドウ畑を舞台に、明るく陽気に、でも芯を突いて語りかけてくる、けっこうシビアで切ない作品です。

Questo film, che pochi conoscono, racconta una settimana di vacanza in viaggio fra i vigneti della California. Protagonisti due amici, l'uno che accompagna l'altro, in una specie di addio al celibato, prima del matrimonio che aspetta il secondo al suo ritorno. Film diretto con mano leggera e sensibile da Alexander Payne, interpretato da due grandi attori, Paul Giamatti e Thomas Haden Church, che per questa interpretazione ebbe una nomination all'Oscar. Un must assoluto per intenditori di vini, un vero divertimento per amanti di un cinema diverso.