Barney’s Version Movie Review

I can only take Paul Giamatti in small doses, especially when he rehashes his Sideways character. Barney’s Version is no small dose, being a little over two hours long. But you know what? Barney’s Version is an excellent film and his performance a standout that Giamatti will find hard to match in future films. I can’t imagine another actor playing the part.

One Line Synopsis

A burned out, hard drinking soap opera producer fights Alzheimer’s while under suspicion of murdering his Bohemian best friend after catching him banging his wife.

Director

Richard J. Lewis

Screenplay

Michael Konyves based on the novel by Mordecai Richler.

Standout Actors

Paul Giamatti. This film would have been a dud without him.

Dustin Hoffman as his coarse, retired cop father.

Best Bit Part

The Mountie playing opposite the aging Bulgarian soap opera “actress”.

The film is long, but worth sitting through. Barney’s Version is the first movie I’ve seen shot in Montreal and surrounding area and makes it worth a visit. Just watch for forest fires and whatever you do, don’t go snorkeling.

Grade  B+