Subtle charms aren't enough to rescue 'The Baxter'

"The Baxter" is a romantic screwball comedy spoof that's too clever and too wimpy for its own good. Written and directed by TV sketch comedian Michael Showalter (of the Comedy Central show "Stella"), who also stars as the title character, the movie's central conceit is an overwrought turnabout on the odd man out. According to Showalter, a Baxter is the hapless nice guy who doesn't get the girl. What happens to that other guy, wonders Showalter. Read the full review

TO SUM UP
The "Baxter" is the guy you settle for when you can't be with the one you love. Tax accountant Elliott Sherman, for instance. Nice but safe, Elliott always finds himself on the losing end of a love triangle. But Elliot decides to take the plunge one more time when he meets his dream woman, beautiful magazine editor Caroline Swann — just before her long-lost high school sweetheart turns up out of the blue.

FILM FACTS ...
IFC Films
'The Baxter'

Director: Michael Showalter
Starring: Michael Showalter, Michelle Williams, Elizabeth Banks, Justin Theroux, Peter Dinklage
Run time: 91 minutes
Release date: August 26, 2005
Rating: PG-13 for brief sexual humor and some drug refernces.

On the web
Official movie site
View the trailer
   Trailers require Quicktime

Rate "The Baxter"
  Go see it
  Make it a matinee
  Wait to rent
  Don't bother


Voter Limit: Once per Hour
View Poll Results
READ THE REVIEW

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution: C+
"While trying really hard to make Elliot a lovable loser, Showalter too often just renders him shrill and annoying."


Inside AJC.COM

Tonight's dinner, solved!

Find good and easy recipes with our big Evening Edge database.

Your money

Feel like you keep giving money away? Get smart with our money-saving tips.

Laugh out loud!

Video:  Get your lunchtime laugh with Atlanta's hottest comedians.

Not old, just active

Who says grow old gracefully? These seniors are still doin' their thing!

Sail the seven seas

Plan the perfect cruise with help from the Travel Channel.

Catch some air!

Map:  Hit the ramps at your local skate parks.

Search AJC Archives

1985 to present     1868 - 1939 Advanced search

Kudzu.com services Find the right people for the job

Keyword     Business Name