Scene #13: Why Miles Loves Pinot

This is the eighth entry in a series in which I'll countdown my 20 favorite scenes from the last 10 years in movies. To catch up more with the idea of this project, to see the other entries on the countdown, and to find out how you can contribute, click here.

There are a number of reasons why I named The Descendants as my most anticipated fall release. George Clooney is one, the promising trailer another. No doubt the biggest reason, though, is Alexander Payne and, to be a little more precise, Sideways.

Election and About Schmidt are good movies, but Sideways is spectacular for so many reasons. The complex characters and brilliant performances. The subtle (and sometimes, not-so-subtle) humor that manages to punctuate the film in all the right places. The screenplay, however, is what puts it over the top for me. It's one of strongest ever, in my opinion, and if you want a highlight, here it is.



The first time I saw this, I thought it felt a little forced—the way everything Miles says about the pinot mirrors himself. But my goodness, the way Giamatti speaks these words is so powerful. He single-handedly convinced me of his character's sincerity. And if you look at the larger conversation these two individuals have, you get something really special.

I had a hard time finding video of the entire thing, but I think this tease says more than enough. Amazing stuff. I love Alexander Payne.

This weekend: Two more great scenes from two three masters of cinema.