olliemankz
Well, folks, I gotta say ... I was taught the theatrical definition of "comedy" a long time ago, and, basically, it's "all's well that ends well." The rest is tragedy.So I believe that this is a comedy, both in the strictest sense of the word, and, I think, too, in the enjoyment of the film. I agree with so many others here, this is a movie that stays with you. I've seen a lot of good movies this year, not all made this year but popping up on Netflix for my viewing pleasure: Extract, Butter, Price Check -- all for some reason revolving around food, Satisfaction Not Guaranteed ... the list goes on and on. No, this one is not a thigh-slapper, but then neither is the comedy of the main female character ... perhaps the one stretch is to think that her shtick could make it. Yet I think it is so endearing, and Natalie West underplays her roles so well, that is not beyond reality at all. I can't say this is a great movie yet ... time will tell how it sits. But it certainly is sweet.
chamberlain2007
While not a comedy, this movie is a prime example of a relationship in which neither person is doing the other a favour. That is, I expected a movie where a cute guy is nice to an old lady and is an obvious tear jerker. In reality, I got a movie which was expressive, fulfilling, and not at all expected. I didn't feel sorry for either character. I empathized, and boy did it hurt. It was a tear jerker, but in it's genuineness. Honestly one of the best films I've seen in quite some time.I strongly recommend watching this film, but prepare yourself. Or rather, leave your preconceived notions at the door. Don't expect a witty comedy. Don't expect a chick flick. This film is raw, fresh and smart, but definitely not a blockbuster. And I wouldn't want it to be.
orosiefactor1959
Nate & Margaret is that rare combination of writing with intelligence, acting with depth, and direction with a storyteller's sensibility.In these days of billion dollar blockbusters with interchangeable 'big name' stars, story lines driven by special effects, and direction as excessive as the decibel level of the soundtrack, it is refreshing to find a 'little' film that has chosen the path less traveled.Veteran actress Natalie West gives us a quirky, cranky and ultimately irresistible Margaret, an eccentric 52 year old pursuing her dream of becoming a stand up comic. Tyler Ross plays Margaret's unlikely best friend, Nate, a 19 year old film student. Ross' performance bubbling with boyish charm and enthusiasm provides the perfect counterbalance to West's world weary curmudgeon. The supporting cast of characters are all well drawn and completely relatable. We know these people; we love these people; we are these people.Nathan Adloff handles his big screen directorial debut (he also wrote and produced the film) with a combination of wit and tenderness that elevates what could have been a cute coming of age story to really fine filmmaking that makes me anxious to see what he has up his sleeve for his sophomore outing.No, Nate & Margaret won't send you into sensory overload, but it will steal your heart.
JetBoy
The trailer doesn't do this film justice. It's a fun, well-made film that feels honest. Nate is earnestly played by a very cute Tyler Ross. Balancing him is Natalie West as Margaret, whose acting and script fit together so perfectly. The writing makes the story fresh and funny, honest and heartfelt. The acting brings it to life in a way that feels true. The film is very professionally edited, making it seem the work of seasoned experts. The genuine chemistry between the actors shows.Nate is a film student. Margret is a coffee shop waitress and aspiring stand-up comic. Their friendship is deep and meaningful; they obviously have been the most important figure in each others' lives for a while.Nate's first romantic relationship (with Conor McCahill's excellent James) provides the source of the conflict, as James wants Nate all to himself.