Noah Baumbach: Noah Baumbach is a renowned filmmaker, widely celebrated for his insightful and emotionally resonant movies. However, beyond his more famous works like “The Squid and the Whale” and “Marriage Story,” Baumbach has a treasure trove of lesser-known gems that deserve your attention.
In this article, we’ll explore nine unfamous movies by Noah Baumbach that you need to know about. These films showcase his unique storytelling style, rich character development, and the ability to capture the complexities of human relationships.
“Kicking and Screaming” (1995)
Baumbach’s directorial debut, “Kicking and Screaming,” is a witty and realistic portrayal of post-graduate life. The film follows a group of friends as they navigate the awkward transition from college to the real world. Baumbach’s sharp, dialogue-driven script captures the humor and uncertainty of this phase, making it a must-watch for anyone going through a similar experience.
“Mr. Jealousy” (1997)
“Mr. Jealousy” delves into the themes of insecurity and jealousy in romantic relationships. The film explores the life of Lester Grimm (Eric Stoltz), a man who becomes increasingly obsessed with his girlfriend’s ex-lovers. Baumbach’s exploration of the complexities of love and human emotions is both thought-provoking and entertaining.
“Highball” (1997)
A lesser-known project, “Highball” is a quirky comedy that showcases Baumbach’s talent for offbeat humor. The film presents a series of interconnected stories centered around a family reunion. With its absurd and often surreal humor, “Highball” offers a unique and memorable viewing experience.
“Margot at the Wedding” (2007)
In “Margot at the Wedding,” Baumbach delves into the intricacies of family relationships. Starring Nicole Kidman and Jennifer Jason Leigh as sisters, the film follows their complicated dynamics and buried resentments during a family gathering. Baumbach’s raw and intimate storytelling style shines in this emotionally charged drama.
“Greenberg” (2010)
“Greenberg” is an unconventional and introspective film that explores the life of Roger Greenberg, played by Ben Stiller, as he housesits for his brother in Los Angeles. Baumbach’s character-driven storytelling and his portrayal of the struggles of the human condition make this film a hidden gem in his filmography.
“Frances Ha” (2012)
Although “Frances Ha” has gained more recognition in recent years, it still remains relatively unfamous compared to some of Baumbach’s other works. This black-and-white comedy-drama revolves around the life of Frances Halladay, a quirky and endearing aspiring dancer in New York City. The film provides a refreshingly authentic take on personal growth and friendship.
“While We’re Young” (2014)
Baumbach’s “While We’re Young” is a satirical take on generational gaps and midlife crises. Starring Ben Stiller and Naomi Watts as a couple who befriend a younger couple, the film humorously explores the differences between the two generations while providing insightful commentary on aging and authenticity.
“Mistress America” (2015)
This comedy-drama showcases Baumbach’s talent for witty, character-driven storytelling. The film follows the story of Tracy, a college freshman who becomes captivated by her adventurous and spirited stepsister-to-be, Brooke. “Mistress America” is a delightful exploration of ambition and friendship.
“The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected)” (2017)
“The Meyerowitz Stories” is a family dramedy starring Adam Sandler, Ben Stiller, and Dustin Hoffman. Baumbach’s keen understanding of family dynamics and the quirks of its members shines in this film. It beautifully captures the complexities of love and resentment within a family.
Conclusion
Noah Baumbach is a master of storytelling, capable of creating films that resonate with viewers on a deeply emotional level. While his more famous works like “The Squid and the Whale” and “Marriage Story” rightly receive acclaim, his lesser-known films also offer rich and rewarding cinematic experiences.
These nine unfamous movies by Noah Baumbach provide a diverse range of themes, from post-graduate life to family dynamics, and are a testament to his storytelling prowess. Don’t miss out on these hidden gems in the world of independent cinema.
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FAQs and answers
1. What are some lesser-known films by Noah Baumbach?
Noah Baumbach, best known for films like The Squid and the Whale and Marriage Story, has a few lesser-known gems worth exploring. These include Kicking and Screaming (1995), a witty look at post-college life, and Greenberg (2010), a character-driven drama starring Ben Stiller. Both films showcase Baumbach’s knack for sharp dialogue and complex characters.
2. What is The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected) about?
The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected) (2017) is a film that centers on an estranged family reuniting for the celebration of their father’s artistic career. This dark comedy-drama explores familial dynamics and legacy, starring Adam Sandler, Ben Stiller, and Dustin Hoffman. It’s one of Baumbach’s more under-the-radar works but well worth watching.
3. Why should I watch While We’re Young (2014)?
While We’re Young is a hilarious exploration of generational gaps and the search for self-worth in middle age. Starring Ben Stiller and Naomi Watts, the film delves into the complexities of friendship, ambition, and identity. It may not have been a massive commercial hit, but it’s a thought-provoking and funny movie worth checking out.
4. What makes Frances Ha (2012) a unique film?
Frances Ha is a quirky, semi-autobiographical story of a young woman navigating her way through New York City. Baumbach co-wrote it with Greta Gerwig, who also stars. The film’s energetic pace, distinctive black-and-white cinematography, and exploration of friendship and dreams make it a standout, despite being one of Baumbach’s lesser-known films.
5. What can I expect from Mistress America (2015)?
Mistress America is a comedy that explores the tumultuous relationship between two women—one an ambitious college freshman, the other her stepsister. It’s sharp, funny, and filled with Baumbach’s signature fast-paced dialogue. While not as well-known as some of his bigger films, it has a cult following for its humor and character development.
6. What is the storyline of Greenberg (2010)?
Greenberg follows Roger Greenberg (Ben Stiller), a man in his 40s returning to Los Angeles to house-sit for his brother. The film focuses on Greenberg’s awkward, self-destructive journey through life. Though it didn’t gain mainstream success, Greenberg is a well-crafted character study and a quintessential Noah Baumbach film.
7. Is Kicking and Screaming a must-see for Baumbach fans?
Yes, Kicking and Screaming (1995) is one of Baumbach’s earliest films and a must-see for fans of his work. The film portrays a group of recent college graduates struggling with the transition to adulthood. It’s a witty, melancholic look at the anxieties of youth and a great introduction to Baumbach’s storytelling style.
