Wilson Joel's (Philip Seymour Hoffman) wife, Liza, has committed suicide, leaving behind a note that he can't bear to read. He tries to go about his usual routine, but when his coworkers start to worry about his erratic behavior, they convince him to take a leave of absence to deal with his loss. Liza's mother (Kathy Bates) offers support to Wilson, but when she finds out that he won't open the note, their relationship turns sour. Wilson's life becomes even more tragic when he begins sniffing gasoline as a means to dull his pain, explaining his gas consumption as the result of his interest in model airplanes.
A film about grief that provides no easy answers, LOVE LIZA showcases an exceptionally strong lead performance by Hoffman. Wilson's misguided grieving process may be difficult viewing for some, especially during moments which come off as absurdly comic (cued by Jim O'Rourke's superb bossa nova influenced score). But under the direction of first-timer Todd Louiso, this very subtle and deliberately paced work will reward anyone willing to go to the often uncomfortable places it reaches. The strikingly original screenplay by Gordy Hoffman (brother of the film's star) was the winner of the Waldo Salt Screenwriting award at the 2002 Sundance Film Festival.
DVD Features
Region 1 Keep Case Letterbox - 1.85 Widescreen - 1.85 Audio: Dolby Digital 2.0 - English Additional Release Material: Trailers Audio Commentary: Phillip Seymour Hoffman - Star, Gordy Hoffman - Screenwriter, Todd Louiso - Director Interactive Features: Scene Selection Interactive Menus Text/Photo Galleries: Filmographies DVD-ROM Features: Weblink
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This film is a little slow and slightly uneventful, however it certainly is a testament to the acting ability of Philip Seymour Hoffman. Hoffman plays a man who's wife has recently committed... Read the whole review at MatchFlick
