STORY STUDY - MEDIUM: FILM - “Sideways”
Much like how Up in the Air was a heavily character driven film which I had no interest in but was forced to see in theaters because I was outvoted, Sideways is an equally heavy character film which I also had no interest in seeing. It was because of a film course I was taking until I finally did.
Luckily, after watching Up in the Air, and a little aware that Sideways was a similar looking film (tonally and pacing wise), I wasn’t 100% against watching it as a required viewing (to be honest, no one should be complaining if they have a class that has films as their source for tests and essays.)
Directed by Alexander Payne, co-written by Payne and Jim Taylor, and based on the novel by Rex Pickett, the film revolves around Miles, a middle-school teacher waiting to see if his book will finally get a publisher, taking his college roommate and friend, Jack, an actor, on a road trip to Santa Ynez Valley wine country as his bachelor’s party. As a wine and wine country expert, Miles’ plan is to have the both of them spend the week tasting wine, playing some golf, and enjoying the scenery. Jack, however, just wants to have one final sexual fling before tying the knot.
Along the way, they meet two women: Waitress Maya, whom Miles already knows prior to the trip, and wine pourer Stephanie, who by coincidence also knows Maya.
This is really where the film kicks off.
Miles has been depressed not just because his book finding difficulty in finding a publisher, but he is also recently divorced. Jack wants him to start a new relationship with Maya, since it’s clear she has an attraction towards him, but Miles isn’t having it, mostly because he wants his ex-wife back.
The film heavily revolves around Miles and Maya connecting, their main topic being wine, and how it affects both of their lives. In case you’re wondering, Jack and Stephanie pretty much have sex whenever they can. He does think he is falling for her, but Miles tells him he's "gone crazy."
That’s pretty much all I can say without giving away too much.
Personally, when I watch this film, everything seems so serene and calm. When it showcases the scenic shots, it’s beautiful. When the dialogue is spoken, it’s acted so natural and quiet. This is mainly because all the dialogue spoken is fueled by the character’s hopes and dreams; their want. “I want my wife back.” “I want to get laid.” “I love wine and this is why.”
Since the film’s release, the wine industry had a spike in sales, and Santa Ynez Valley had an increase in tourism.
The film even inspired a Japanese-language remake, this time set in Napa Valley.
My only awareness to Sideways prior to watching it was when I was watching the 2005 Academy Awards ceremony where the film won only one award: Best Adapted Screenplay. Right from the start of watching the film, I could tell I was going to admire this it. I was still riding that wave after watching Up in the Air, where a film doesn’t have much plot, just relying on a character’s arc and journey. As someone who wanted (still wants) to make films, but on a small budget, character-driven films, I believe, are the way to go.
If you want a film where you want to feel relaxed, and take comfort in knowing your world won’t end because of a few stupid mistakes, I highly suggest Sideways.
Get a bottle of Pinot Noir, and check it out.
