
About Schmidt
2002, Comedy/Drama, 2h 4m
204 Reviews 50,000+ RatingsWhat to know
critics consensus
In this funny, touching character study, Nicholson gives one of the best performances of his career. Read critic reviews
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Where to watch
About Schmidt Photos
Movie Info
Warren Schmidt (Jack Nicholson) has arrived at several of life's crossroads all at the same time. To begin with, he is retiring from a lifetime of service as an actuary for Woodmen of the World Insurance Company, and he feels utterly adrift. Furthermore, his only daughter Jeannie (Hope Davis) is about to marry a boob. And his wife Helen (June Squibb) dies suddenly after 42 years of marriage.
Cast & Crew
Jack Nicholson
Warren Schmidt
Warren Schmidt
Hope Davis
Jeannie Schmidt
Jeannie Schmidt
Dermot Mulroney
Randall Hertzel
Randall Hertzel
Kathy Bates
Roberta Hertzel
Roberta Hertzel
Len Cariou
Ray Nichols
Ray Nichols
Howard Hesseman
Larry
Larry
Critic Reviews for About Schmidt
Audience Reviews for About Schmidt
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Apr 14, 2019Jack Nicholson gives a nuanced performance as a square, one of those guys who defines himself by his job, at the end of the line and suddenly w/o that job. Now what? Agonizing reappraisal. A tender look into the heart of American darkness, ably assisted by a decent supporting cast.Kevin M. W Super Reviewer
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Apr 03, 2013Another fantastic comedy from Sideways director Alexander Payne, About Schmidt tells the story of an old man searching for meaning in his life as he ventures to his daughter's wedding in Colorado. Along the way he meets various eccentrics, including his son-in-law's mother, a hilariously vulgar woman played by Kathy Bates. Jack Nicholson is great in the lead role, giving one of the best performances of his career, and Kathy Bates has some incredibly funny scenes. Like all Alexander Payne movies, About Schmidt also has an undercurrent of emotion, and Jack Nicholson does a great job of making you understand and feel for Warren Schmidt as he struggles to find satisfaction and happiness. About Schmidt is yet another well-acted, well-written, and thoughtful movie from Alexander Payne, and should come as a breath of fresh air for those sick of shallow low-brow comedies.Joey S Super Reviewer
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May 27, 2012odd film that warrants viewing for nicholson in the lead. sadly this is not something you'll view again and again due to its slow pacing. alexander payne makes interesting films but sadly they aren't exactly crowd favourites.Brendan N Super Reviewer
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Feb 29, 2012One of Jack Nicholson's last great performances, About Schmidt is just the right mix of dark humor and drama.Christopher H Super Reviewer
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