Sam the Man

Sam Manning (Fisher Stevens) is desperately trying to write his next novel but is suffering a serious case of sophomore slump. He's getting nowhere, broke, and engaged to a patient and understanding photographer (Annabella Sciorra). The story is told using a mixture of Sam's day-to-day life, photographs, and Sam's commentary to an off-screen character. Sam's main character seems to be mimicking his life..or maybe it's the other way around...

If you watch this expecting to spend the movie snickering with Fisher Stevens as his usual, wise-cracking, joker (even in a non-comedy role) you will be surprised. There are very few wise-cracks and, don't let the poster fool you, it's not a romantic comedy.

It's a well-done telling of a guy who up to now had been The Man. Success, centre of attention, with the ability to hook women but now trying to pull himself together and failing miserably...or maybe he's not.

It's nice to see him in a starring role, so adjust your stereotypical expectations and you will enjoy it. Bonus if you catch a blink-and-you'll-miss-her walk-by from Mariska Hargitay.