Middle–aged men in crisis have been so prominent in American independent film that the character type has become cliche. At first glance, Tom McCarthy’s Win Win would seem to fit the mold. But much like he did in The Visitor (2008), the actor–director deftly handles a familiar cinematic trope with the help of a formidable cast. The result is a nuanced film that is both warmhearted and witty.
Despite what the title suggests, New Jersey lawyer Mike Flaherty (Giamatti) is hardly winning. With his law practice struggling to find clients in a dismal economy and an oblivious wife (Ryan) who is all too happy to remind him of his fiscal responsibilities, Mike’s life is unraveling before his eyes. It hardly helps that the high school wrestling squad he coaches with friend Vigman (Tambor) has a legendary losing streak.
Determined to change his fate, Mike convinces a judge to give him guardianship over his increasingly senile client Leo (Burt Young) so he can pocket a large monthly stipend. To keep circumstances from becoming more complicated, he shucks the man off to a nursing home against his wishes. That’s when 16–year–old Kyle (Alex Shaffer) shows up looking to stay with his grandfather. With few other options — Kyle refuses to return home — Mike and wife Jackie take the teenager in, which becomes particularly fortuitous since Kyle is revealed to be a superb wrestler. Expectedly, this change of fate proves precipitous, and Mike’s downfall seems inevitable within minutes.
While Win Win’s trajectory may not be a surprise, McCarthy infuses the narrative with a sharp wit that keeps the film fresh and intriguing. Offbeat dialogue and the occasional physical gag breathe fresh air into a narrative that might otherwise be excessively sappy. McCarthy balances the humor with rich characters that resemble real people rather than the caricatured stock types.
It doesn’t hurt that the cast is such a delight to watch. Giamatti is a proven master at depicting suffering, and his tender portrayal of Mike brings sympathy to a character whose machinations are fairly deplorable. Giamatti also puts his comic chops on display, particularly in scenes with Bobby Canavale — who shines as Mike’s over–the–top best friend.
Ryan also proves to be a smart casting choice; not only is her comedic timing superb, but her scenes with Shaffer (who shines in his film debut) are among the film’s most poignant.
McCarthy’s delicate treatment of his characters does leave something to be desired. Despite being in a moral gray area for most of the film, Mike is never truly forced to account for his actions. Still, the richness of the film’s ending more than makes up for that oversight — and that leaves the audience the true winners.
4/5 Stars Win Win Directed by: Tom McCarthy Starring: Paul Giamatti, Amy Ryan, Jeffrey Tambor Rated R, 106 min.
