Second Best (2004)

Jealousy overwhelms a group of friends, particularly struggling writer Elliot, as they prepare for the homecoming of their old friend, a wildly successful L.A. producer.

Director:

Eric Weber

Writer:

Eric Weber

Stars:

Joe Pantoliano, Boyd Gaines, Peter Gerety

Cast

Cast overview, first billed only:
Joe Pantoliano	...	Elliot
Boyd Gaines	...	Richard
Peter Gerety	...	Marshall
Bronson Pinchot	...	Doc Klingenstein
Matthew Arkin	...	Gerald
Jennifer Tilly	...	Carole
Stephen Bogardus	...	George
Barbara Barrie	...	Dorothea
Polly Draper	...	Paula
James Ryan	...	Danny
Stephen Sable	...	Lum Chin
Damian Young	...	Robert Stern
Melody Pantoliano	...	Waitress
Irma St. Paule	...	Beth
Frank McCombs	...	Frank

Storyline

Second Best is the story of five male baby boomers all nearing 50. They graduated from college together, ready to take on the world, but only one of the group has done exceptionally well. His visit back East to hang out with the old gang triggers the most intense feelings of inadequacy and "second bestness," particularly in his oldest and closest friend.

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Plot Keywords:

writer | gay interest | gay son

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Taglines:

Losing sucks, but it doesn't necessarily kill you.

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Genres:

Comedy

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Motion Picture Rating (MPAA)

Rated R for language and sexual content

Details

Official Sites:

Tenafly Film Company

Country:

USA

Language:

English

Release Date:

16 January 2004 (USA)

Also Known As:

O Fracasso é um Sucesso

Filming Locations:

Cresskill, New Jersey, USA

Company Credits

Production Co:

Keep Your Head, Second Best Inc., Tenafly Film Company

Technical Specs

Runtime:

86 min 90 min (Ontario)

Color:

Color

Did You Know?

Quotes

Elliot: [to gay son Danny] So, ummm: Pussy! What d'ya say?
Danny: Uhhh...
Elliot: Danny, pussy's not so bad. Just like an asshole, it's smooth, it's silky, AND... it doesn't chafe.
Danny: You seem to know a lot about assholes, Pop.
Elliot: Been one all my life.

User Reviews

SECOND BEST is special

I saw SECOND BEST last year at the Sundance Film Festival. Eric Weber has brought us a heart-felt and touching film about the lovable loser Elliot (played by the always entertaining Joe Pantoliano). Beyond being bitter sweet, this film is also very funny. It is not very often that a movie combines being so tragic and hilarious as well as Eric has in this film.

As a woman, I also found this movie enlightening. It is rare look into what men are really thinking from envy of wealthy friends to attraction to women they cannot have. This movie is required viewing for every woman out there, believe me, it makes you think! See this movie. You will be glad you did.