About Schmidt - 5

An earlier (2002) film from Alexander Payne (also did Sideways) about a retiree who is trying to understand his value after leaving his job to some young hotshot who doesn't seem to need his advice, and his only daughters marriage which he fears will leave him alone. His lack of any real friendships and his dislike for most people have left him searching for a life he thought he had, but never did. Throughout the film he narrates his letters that he sends to his adopted child in Africa (he signs up for one of those TV commercials where you donate $22 a month to support a child in poverty). This one-sided dialogue is funny as well as insightful about Schmidt's inner feelings and thoughts. In the end, this is his one connection to humanity after most others have failed. This film should cause the audience to stop and reflect on there own lives and the choices made.