A comedy from the heart that goes for the throat.|Dec. 19, 1997|United States|139 Min.|PG-13
Genre: Comedy;Romance
Description: “As Good as It Gets” is a 1997 film that tells the story of Melvin Udall, a misanthropic and obsessive-compulsive romance novelist living in New York City. Melvin’s rigid routines include avoiding sidewalk cracks and dining at the same table in his favorite restaurant, where he develops an unusual interest in Carol Connelly, a waitress who is one of the few people able to tolerate his difficult behavior.
When Melvin’s neighbor, Simon Bishop—a gay artist—is severely injured during a robbery, Melvin is forced to care for Simon’s dog, Verdell. Over time, Melvin forms an unexpected bond with the dog, which begins to soften his demeanor. Meanwhile, Carol faces personal challenges as she cares for her asthmatic son, leading her to take a job closer to home. To keep Carol in his life, Melvin arranges for her son’s medical expenses to be covered, though she remains skeptical of his motives.
Simon, struggling with his recovery and financial difficulties, decides to visit his estranged parents in Baltimore to seek financial help. Reluctantly, Melvin agrees to drive Simon, and Carol joins them for the trip. During their journey, complex relationships unfold as the characters confront their personal struggles and emotions.
The film explores themes of human connection, personal growth, and the transformative power of unexpected relationships.
Cast director: James L. Brooks
Cast actor: Jack Nicholson, Helen Hunt, Greg Kinnear, Cuba Gooding Jr., Skeet Ulrich, Shirley Knight, Yeardley Smith, Lupe Ontiveros, Lawrence Kasdan, Harold Ramis
Original name: As Good as It Gets