Win Win (8.5/10)

"Win Win" follows a classic formula, but it works great with it. The formula is nice, so why not continue to use it? I don't know what to call it but here's the guideline... person has problem, enter new angle, first distrust then acceptance, the new angle and the person are happy, enter problem, fight, and finally make up at the end. "Win Win" is a winner because it just frankly is a good movie, I can't see a problem with any of it.

Mike Flaherty (Paul Giamatti, great as always) is a lawyer with a struggling practice, has a lackluster home life and coaches a losing wrestling team for the high school. His problems seems realistic and will win you over without to much flash nor blandness. To get some quick easy cash to save his practice he takes on guardianship of Leo (Burt Young). He sends him to a nursing home to make things easier for himself. Soon Leo's grandson, Kyle shows up (first timer Alex Shaffer showing real talent) and needs a place to stay and help. So Mike and his wife (Amy Ryan) take him in but are not to sure what the end game plan is. Kyle joins the wrestling team and the kid is a wonder. Mike uses him to boost his own esteem why helping the kid, Win-Win situation right? Well Kyle's rehab frequenting mother (Melanie Lynskey) will question that.

Thomas McCarthy knows how to take a simple plot and make it engaging and heartfelt. The movie is very simple, but that's what makes it so great. Like I said earlier, neither flashy nor bland. "Win Win" has found a niche and walks tall with it.

8.5/10
Recommendation: Not the most groundbreaking movie, but there's no real flaws. It's enjoyable for real anybody, I'd watch it if you can.