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: [reading from his printed leaflet] So here I am, gang - kicked out of a job and a house, scrounging from my mom, my ex-wife, my son, and guess what: my oldest friend Richard is coming to town, and I beg him to stay with me. Richard has kept his hair, his looks, his money; and pretty much runs Hollywood. You'd think he wouldn't have the time of day for his old buddies back East. You know, he's never once turned his back on me. Not once. Always kind, totally open, lends me money, and never asks ...
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User Reviews

good dialog, fine acting and directing

fine film, situations are very much a part of many peoples lives. entertaining storyline, filled with real life situations. who among us hasn't suffered from feeling second best. a good reflection of many peoples feelings and insecurities. good casting and well directed film. film takes you through a full range of emotions, laughter, angst, it's all there. acting is very good. scene locations are excellent. constantly reminded of personal situations that are similar to film. if you have ever felt second best, you will enjoy the film. and who hasn't felt that at some point. it makes a common human condition very entertaining.