On second thought, a good film

Rating: 8/10 (2 January 2002)

Originally, I wrote a rather harsh critique of this film. On subsequent viewings -- and oddly, after reading the book -- I've come to appreciate High Fidelity much more.
John Cusack and Iben Hjelje make an interesting mismatch of a couple, which is the fulcrum of most of the film. Cusack drives her away and then spends the entire time trying to win her back without quite understanding why. He's approaching middle age and has begun to question his choices and his lack of responsibility.
In truth, most men reach Cusack's dilemma in their early twenties, but Cusack's Rob is a case of arrested development. Charming though he is, he has to start growing up.
The supporting performances are very good, but Jack Black does a star turn as Rob's music-snob employee at his record store. He's worth the price of admission alone.