As Good As It Gets (1997) / Comedy-Drama

MPAA Rated: PG-13 for language, nudity and a beating
Running Time: 139 min.

Cast: Jack Nicholson, Helen Hunt, Greg Kinnear, Cuba Gooding Jr., Skeet Ulrich, Shirley Knight, Brian Doyle-Murray (cameo), Missi Pyle (cameo), Shane Black (cameo), Jamie Kennedy (cameo), Maya Rudolph (cameo), Lawrence Kasdan (cameo), Harold Ramis (cameo), Todd Solondz (cameo)
Director: James L. Brooks
Screenplay: Mark Andrus, James L. Brooks
Review published February 5, 1997

Nominated for seven academy awards (winning two for Best Actor and Actress: Jack Nicholson (Wolf, Hoffa) and Helen Hunt (Twister, Roller Coaster)), As Good As It Gets tells the story about a grumpy writer with idiosyncrasies galore, his gay neighbor (Kinnear, Sabrina), and a waitress who has trouble finding a man who will put up with her son's illness. The unlikely and lonely trio must get together and deal with each other through a variety of circumstances.

As Good As It Gets is an intriguing throughout, bolstered by a standout performance by Nicholson. At times touching, funny, and infuriating, the film is always insightful. Director James Brooks (Broadcast News, Spanglish) shows he still has the magic touch when it comes to characters and direction. Good stuff!

Qwipster's rating:

©1997 Vince Leo