As Good As It Gets

As Good As It Gets

As Good As It Gets is an American romantic comedy film that was released in 1997. The film was directed by James L. Brooks and was produced by Laura Ziskin. The film stars Jack Nicholson, Helen Hunt and Greg Kinnear.

The Plot

As Good As It Gets sees single mother waitress Carol Connelly, played by Helen Hunt, form an unlikely friendship with gay artist Simon Bishop, played by Greg Kinnear, as well as author Melvin Udall who suffers from OCD, played by Jack Nicholson.

Melvin manages to alienate himself from most people but finds himself looking after Simon Bishops dog after Simon is hospitalised. On top of this, the only waitress who will serve Melvin is forced off work, leaving him unable to have breakfast.

It is an interesting plot, and does not follow a traditional romantic comedy storyline, although there are some of the usual cliches in there. The plot is interesting throughout, with dynamics changing constantly. 

The Performances

The performances are all strong in this performances, which is supported by the fact that both Nicholson and Hunt won Oscars for their roles in the movie.  Greg Kinnear is great in it as well and the support cast holds up strong, particularly Cuba Gooding Junior (who seems to pop up in every other film in the 90s).

Comedy

I often watch romantic comedy films that have very little comedy (and often very little romance to be honest!) contained in them. As Good As It Gets has some genuinely funny moments in it that mainly come from Jack Nicholson and his behaviour! 

Overall

Overall As Good As It Gets has a lot going for it. It has a really strong cast that all put in fantastic performances. The story is strong, especially for a romantic comedy film, and has some funny moments in it. There is also a lot of heart in it and we really feel the characters.

Rating: 8/10