Cast
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Jack Nicholson
as Warren Schmidt
Kathy Bates
as Roberta Hertzel
Hope Davis
as Jeannie Schmidt
Dermot Mulroney
as Randall Hertzel
June Squibb
as Helen Schmidt
Howard Hesseman
as Larry Hertzel
Harry Groener
as John Rusk
Connie Ray
as Vicki Rusk
Len Cariou
as Ray Nichols
Mark Venhuizen
as Duncan Hertzel
Cheryl Hamada
as Saundra
Phil Reeves
as Minister in Denver
Matt Winston
as Gary Nordin - Warren's Replacement
James M. Connor
as Randall's Best Man
Jill Anderson
as Bridesmaid Reading St. Paul
Crew
Director
- Alexander Payne
Writer
- Jim Taylor
Producer
- Michael Besman
- Harry Gittes
Reviews
Wuchak
***Quietly amusing meditation on one’s life post 9:00-to-5:00 grind***
Warren Schmidt (Jack Nicholson) retires from an insurance agency in Omaha and takes a road trip in his new RV, hoping maybe to reconnect with his daughter (Hope Davis) during her wedding in Denver. The distinguishing bracket for the story revolves around Warren honestly writing his new sponsor-child in Tanzania. June Squibb plays his wife, Dermot Mulroney his imminent son-in-law and Kathy Bates the latter’s mother. Howard Hesseman also shows up.
“About Schmidt” (2002) is a coming-of-old-age road flick, far superior to the similar “Everybody’s Fine” (2009) with De Niro. You can’t help but think of Thoreau’s observation “The mass of men lead lives of quiet desperation.” But, unlike the dull De Niro film, this one has a sense of humor amidst the melancholic-but-insightful proceedings.
It’s a lesson on the negative side of giving up your life to the grind for a good paycheck and nice house in the ’burbs. Yet, also, that it’s never too late to live again, as well as realize & perhaps make up for your sincere, but sincerely wrong shortcomings.
The movie runs 2 hours, 5 minutes, and was shot in Nebraska and surrounding points.
GRADE: B
Apr 5, 2020
ARGMAN
Jack Nicholson proved he's not just an interesting face.
Feb 27, 2024
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, About Schmidt examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Alexander Payne brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2002, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of About Schmidt took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $30.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 125 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 178 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 431 unique costume pieces for the production.
- The screenplay went through 7 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 9 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 2002, when this film is released:
- Social media platforms were beginning to transform communication.
- Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
- Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.
How This Film Stands Out
While About Schmidt shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Bridges of Madison County, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, About Schmidt subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Four Weddings and a Funeral and The Mad Adventures of Rabbi Jacob explore similar territory, About Schmidt stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 12, 2002
- Runtime: 2h 5m
- Budget: $30,000,000
- Revenue: $105,834,556
