Wit on a spit...

The story revolves around an advertising man (Scott) who is saddened and disappointed at other people's joy. He tells his protégé nephew that 'you can't sell product unless you make people feel bad'. He spends his days and nights trying to convince others that his misery is the only truth that should matter. He is a sad, bitter and yet stunningly thoughtful genius. The character is one of the most conflicted I have ever seen in a film. To be so literate, observant, eloquent and sharply witty... yet waste all that on a life filled with a depressed and lonely philosophy... it's supremely engaging to watch. And now his nephew, visiting him in New York City, is in for a crash course in life and the pursuit of women.

'Roger Dodger' has a fucking great script! Every word balances precariously on the razor's edge of wit and viciousness. You'll find yourself laughing at things you know to be true but that no one will readily admit. It is beautifully written in ways that will remind you of the best David Mamet dialogue.

Campbell Scott is brilliant while portraying this desperate guy as a blindly egotistical loser who thinks that, if he just keeps talking, he can mask all of his insufficiencies and shortcomings. It is a superb performance.

This movie is located plum-square in the middle of 'winning time'.

© Written by TC Candler

How We Rated This Film TC Candler - A- Richard Propes - B+ Jacob Hall -

Richard Propes' Comment

As written and directed by Dylan Kidd, this film features strong performances from lead Campbell Scott, teen Jesse Eisenberg and surprisingly strong performances by Elizabeth Berkley and Jennifer Beals. Of course, I have to acknowledge Isabella Rossellini, as well. The performances are marvelous, though I agree with a couple observations I've seen that the cinematography is quite questionable. I'd like to believe there was some sort of theatrical purpose for it, but for me it was distracting.

Jacob Hall's Comment

n/a