ABOUT SCHMIDT (2002)
ALEXANDER PAYNE
Plot
Warren Schmidt has retired after many years with Woodman Worldwide Insurance. He and his wife, Helen, had planned to travel around the country in their new Winnebago but, when Helen suddenly dies, Schimdt begins to wonder if his life had ever meant anything at all. As his daughter's wedding approaches, he tries to get reconnected with her as he takes the Winnebago on the road, solo. Meeting his new in-laws as well as some other trailer travellers, Schmidt begins to learn that his preconceived ideas about people are not always accurate. Life changes and aging are dealt with in this tragi-comedy which hinges on Nicholson's understated performance as well as Kathy Bates' supporting role as the straight-talking mother of the groom. Excellent, well-observed and moving.