Wonder Boys

An excellent character driven story
Michael Douglas, in one of his most interesting and memorable roles, plays Grady Tripp, a Literature Professor at the local college, also a notably published author still riding on the tail feathers of his past triumphant novel, attempting unsucessfully to write another, while distracted by a pretty and smart student in his class who happens to be living in a room at his house, and having an affair with his boss' wife, despondant of his own troubled marriage (his wife left him), and unwittingly has a series of strange mini adventures with James (Tobey Maguire), one of his gifted but overly morose writing students. Douglas is in top form as the very human and down to earth character of Tripp. Robert Downey, Jr., Tobey Maguire, Frances Mcdormand, Rip Torn and Richard Thomas all lend their best in supporting roles. Downey is particularly good as the eccentric homosexual friend of Tripp, who brings home a transvestite, but refuses to admit she's a he. Maguire is excellent as the...

Funny, smart movie
This is a smart, very funny movie set in an unusual location, Pittsburgh. Has an interesting plot and setting. Michael Douglas is never afraid to look bad and share the spotlight. Characters in the movie have flaws, as all humans do..funny movie.

Highly Overlooked Movie
I thought I had reviewed this product but,here goes again..This is a wonderful Movie. One of my favorites. It amazes me to see how well Michael Douglas can act without the Brooks Brother suit and sophistication of Hollywood.He is very believable as the pot smoking Professor, who is having a sweet affair with Frances Dormand and trying to hide from the blind Pit bull of her husband. Robert Downy Jr. could not have been better, as he arrives in town with a beautiful 6 foot Transvestite to confer with the professor about a much needed sequel to his book. Toby McGuire , now It was my first time seeing him and he plays a dark genius with suicidal tendencies at least that what he wants you to believe. And the rest of the cast is no less great.They all work seamlessly with each other. Michael Douglas has said it was reported that he thought this was his best film and was so disappointed that the film community did not see that for some reason. Well I thought so Michael.

Click to Editorial Reviews