I went into this film with no particular expectations, except for the fact that Sam Elliot was in it (which is why I watched it once I saw it had rated well). The story is simply mesmerizing. Of all the angles they could have taken with this star-studded cast, the final product was a very intentional, artistic and deep look at the lives of artists and moreover humans. A really great film, underrated as it is.

As to Sam Elliot, watching him play a "character" known for his gravely voice and distinct mustache I couldn't help but impose my own unfounded attraction to his wry smile and laissez-faire attitude toward life. It was like a window in a window that...if you look and think deeply is actually holding a mirror at its core. Again, just a great treatment of an interesting thought experiment.