[10]

Michael Douglas gives a career highlight performance as Grady Tripp, a fifty-year-old college professor worried about following up his sensational debut novel in this warm, character-driven comedy from director Curtis Hanson (L.A. Confidential, 8 Mile) and author Michael Chabon. Grady’s life is further complicated when his wife leaves him, the university chancellor (Frances McDormand) informs him she’s pregnant with his baby, his publisher (Robert Downey Jr.) drops in to see the incomplete novel, and a troubled young student (Tobey Maguire) becomes his ward for a few days.

There’s a lot going on in Wonder Boys, but it’s all beautifully motivated by a cast of warm and witty characters grappling with their own life-changing dilemmas. Douglas carries the film with charming self-deprecation. You’ll never see Michael Douglas more down-to-earth than he is in this Oscar-calibre performance (he was robbed of a nomination). Tobey Maguire is excellent as the sullen but devious James Leer, a closeted young writer and compulsive liar who admires Grady. Robert Downey Jr. gets third billing, an inspired choice as Douglas’ impetuous, libidinous book editor. The terrific cast also includes Katie Holmes, Rip Torn, and Alan Tudyk.

What I most appreciate about Wonder Boys is the suggestion that isolation mires us in our problems. Company, even odd company, has a way of helping you see the light. It’s a ‘hang out’ film with a fresh, breezy quality to it that invites repeat viewings. I also love the Oscar-winning title song, “Things Have Changed,” written for the film by Bob Dylan. There’s not a false note in the entire movie, which I regard as one of the first masterpieces of the 21st century.

With Richard Thomas, Philip Bosco, Jane Adams, and Richard Knox.

Academy Award: Best Song (“Things Have Changed”)

Oscar Nominations: Best Adapted Screenplay (Steve Kloves), Film Editing (Dede Allen)