recent past. saw the new p.t. anderson film this evening. when i first heard about it, probably on aint it cool or something, the idea struck me as just bad. who would put adam “happy gilmore” sandler in a serious role, or even a well-meaning romantic comedy? yes, i saw the wedding singer and i thought it was actually charming in an odd way, but the man hams more than hormel and mugs more than corningware. but here’s this film. punch-drunk love. a small film, no more than an hour and a half. and it’s just so incredibly genuine and … well … sweet. not an easy film to watch, as sandler plays barry egan, a man beset by his job, his sisters and most of all himself. a walking nerve ending, there is a vulnerability to egan that you cannot help but share. the score by jon brion offers no solace, as it agitates and percusses in tempo to egan’s own frustrations. then he meets lena, played by emily watson, and something starts to come into focus. something real. the story also involves novelty plungers, phone sex, a discarded harmonium and lots of pudding, but to say more would give it away. but giving is what you need to do, as in a chance, because this film might not stick around very long. like other anderson films, this one either gets you or dismays you. me? i got it and i felt it.
present. i’m tired. packing for the move continues, but things seem less organized now than the chaos where i started. thankfully, jury duty left my realm of possibility two mornings ago. i don’t think two whole weeks of a medical malpractice suit would sit very well with me right now.
near future. i’ve another job interview in the morning. late morning. 11am. if you feel like crossing a finger or sending a good vibe around that time, i’d appreciate it.
goodnight.
