Greenberg (2010)

Directed By: Noah Baumbach
Starring: Ben Stiller, Greta Gerwig

In this Indie film, Ben Stiller plays Roger Greenberg, a man who has just recently got out of the hospital for psychological problems. Roger Greenberg agrees to watch over his brother's home while he is gone. This means returning home to L.A. where he grew up. While home he meets with his old friend Ivan (Rhys Ifans) and they relive their friendship. Roger's brother has an assistant, Florence (Greta Gerwig), who is able to help Roger with things around the house as well as how to take care of the dog. The two hook up and Roger begins having an even harder time coping with the real life.

This is probably the best acting you will see from Ben Stiller. Greenberg is a pretty unlikeable guy, but I cannot help enjoying him. Looking at him deal with his daily situations, I can't help but understand exactly where he is coming from. He appears to be an opinionated guy, but it seems to be a cover for his real feelings. This movie is in several ways like Garden State. Similar plot, but different circumstances. I may not give it credit for being completely original, but if a movie can make you feel then who cares if it's original. There are two scenes in which Ben Stiller actually catches my breath. It's real. What we see in this movie are things we can see in real life, in our own relationships. Florence is beautiful and vulnerable. He tries to build a relationship with Florence who is at least half his age and it's not without its problems from both characters. As dysfunctional as we might think Roger is, Florence has her own troubles adjusting to life she wished she had. Beyond girl trouble, Roger must come to face that his friends blame him for their old band failing because of his unwillingness to accept a record contract they were given.

An overall enjoyable film that I will enjoy watching a second time. If you hate Ben Stiller for whatever reason and see if you feel the same. I'm not saying you won't, but Ben shows that there is more to him in this film. Greta Gerwig may not see too much fame, but she plays this character in a way that any male would forgive her flaws just as Greenberg does.

★★★