technically lynchian (the straight story)

“Does he have Alzheimer's?”
“He just believes stuff that people tell him.”

This truly is one of the best movies of the last decade. It’s heart breaking and heart warming all in one, and the story is beautiful. All of the lead performances are done with such subtlety but also with so much passion, especially Bruce Dern. And of course, the subtle (but strong) camerawork and the impressive score flow so seamlessly together and give this movie a vibe that puts it over the top for me.

Also featuring one of the most satisfying punches I’ve ever seen in a movie.

Alexander Payne always injects a great dose of humor in his films and also thoroughly investigates the dramatic aspect of the main characters and their backgrounds. Nebraska certainly wasn't an exception and with its black and white format, it was a delightful, constantly funny and touching film. As usual, he manages to get the best efforts from the cast and even Will Forte, who is mostly known from his comedic work, gave a solid performance in a more serious role. Veterans Bruce Dern and June Squibb really shine here, displaying not only great comedic timing but also a nice emotional touch to their characters. Nebraska is a trip to the past, a journey of rediscovery, a story of redemption and the rebonding of father and son, being very worthy of all the praise it's been receiving over the last months.

After Sideways, this is another beautifully melancholic, tender road trip movie by Alexander Payne about the joy and sadness of growing old, with a great amount of heart & humour, with an array of fine performances.

vintage Payne (his Ozu movie?), a wry & wistful family drama of fortunes lost and found, people learning how to express their love at the pivotal moments when it's about to expire. and that last shot is just perfect.

oh hey i interviewed Alexander Payne about this: www.film.com/movies/alexander-payne-interview-nebraska

Such a fun rewatch. Might like it more than Sideways.

"Usually a person has to die before the vultures start circling."

This film is brilliant in the sense that it reminded me of the hard years before my grandparents passed away during which I had no choice but to sit back and watch while their consciousness slowly diminished.

But on a more serious note, I really want Bruce Dern to be my replacement grandpa.

Another poignant and visually poetic road drama from Alexander Payne, loaded with tender heartwarming moments and enjoyable humor. The way he is able to capture the challenges and melancholy inside his ordinary characters in a sensitive yet quirky way is amusing. The black and white cinematography along with pleasant country music, gives it a relaxed vibe. A pointless road trip, breathing fresh life into the estranged relationship between a father and son is explored beautifully. While Bruce Dern and Will Forte deliver outstanding performances, its June Squibb who steals the show in her hilarious role. A highly satisfying watch.

So good. So sad. So good.