win win (miff film #10)

Win Win

I had wanted to see Win Win for a long time. I’d happened upon the trailer at the Apple site and in those 2 minutes and 23 seconds, I was hooked. I’m happy to report the wait was worth it and since this film (along with many that I’ve previously reviewed) will be getting a general release, I’d urge you to see it.

This engaging, sweet film tells its story beautifully and the characters have enough dimensions to leave every viewer satisfied. While for me, Bobby Cannavale kinda stole the show, I loved Paul Giamatti, Amy Ryan (from The Office and The Wire) and Alex Shaffer, in his first, but definitely not his last film.

Win Win tells the story of struggling attorney Mike Flaherty (Giamatti) who takes not-entirely-ethical steps to increase the financial aid his family needs. This one action sets off a chain of events that I found an utter delight to see play out. I don’t want to give anything away, since my highlights will be your highlights and you should get to watch them without knowing they’re about to happen, but I’ll just say it’s a funny, heartbreaking, touching film.

Thanks MIFF for featuring this film in your program, it was a gem.

5 stars!