As possibly the most recognizable character actor of our generation, Stephen Tobolowsky has given us a gift for his birthday. It's a window into his bizarre, unglamorous life.
Stephen Tobolowsky's Birthday Party (2006)
Tomatometer
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Reviews Counted:11
Fresh:11
Rotten:0
Average Rating:8/10
Synopsis: Stephen Tobolowsky is one of modern cinema's great "that guy" actors: everyone recognizes him--from great small roles in movies like GROUNDHOG DAY, BASIC INSTINCT, THELMA AND LOUISE, SPACEBALLS,... Stephen Tobolowsky is one of modern cinema's great "that guy" actors: everyone recognizes him--from great small roles in movies like GROUNDHOG DAY, BASIC INSTINCT, THELMA AND LOUISE, SPACEBALLS, and MEMENTO, to name just a few, not to mention appearances on dozens of TV shows--but very few people actually know his name. Robert Brinkmann's terrific documentary (and directorial debut), alternately touching and hilarious, is an intimate portrait of the talented, chameleon-esque character actor, who allowed the filmmakers to follow him around on his birthday. As he regales friends and the camera with fascinating behind-the-scenes anecdotes and stories of his Hollywood experiences, from early audition disasters to being beaten up by a group of monks, Tobolowsky proves to be a charismatic and gripping storyteller as well as a memorable face. [More]
Starring: Stephen Tobolowsky, Amy Adams, Mena Suvari
Starring: Stephen Tobolowsky, Amy Adams, Mena Suvari
Director: Robert Brinkmann
Director: Robert Brinkmann
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Reviews for Stephen Tobolowsky's Birthday Party
a brilliant, insightful, and hysterical look at one of our great talents.
According to Brinkmann, Tobolowsky is the greatest storyteller he's ever heard, and after watching this film, that statement is hard to dispute.
Tobolowski is so skilled and effortless, he proves that while everyone has a story to tell, not everyone can tell a great story.
The kind of party I'd like to attend is the one hosted by Mr. Stephen Tobolowsky - a laid back and quietly classy affair filled with fine wine and lots of great anecdotes.
Think of Stephen as a softer, rounder, more existentially content Spalding Gray, or the film as a My Dinner with Andre in a pullover sweater and sensible shoes.
The late Spalding Gray may have no equal living today to recreate the energy and beauty of his monologues, but Stephen Tobolowsky in this film comes close.
...it does seem entirely likely that even those who've never heard of [Tobolowsky] will inevitably find themselves won over by the actor's warm, irresistibly inviting persona.
| Tomatometer Percentage | Movie |
|---|---|
| 15% 15% | The Ugly Truth |
| 98% 98% | Up |
| 36% 36% | G.I. Joe: The Rise of … |
| 52% 52% | The Taking of Pelham 1… |
| 45% 45% | Ice Age: Dawn of the D… |
| Tomatometer Percentage | Movie |
|---|---|
| 36% 36% | Angels & Demons |
| 68% 68% | Funny People |
| 25% 25% | Four Christmases |
| 45% 45% | Shorts |
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