As Good As It Gets (1997)

86% of critics liked it
(76 reviews)
81% of users liked it
(352,188 ratings)

James L. Brooks (Terms of Endearment, Broadcast News) directed this $50 million-plus romantic comedy, set in Manhattan. Dysfunctional, acid-tongued romance novelist Melvin Udall (Jack Nicholson), who suffers from an obsessive-compulsive disorder, takes pride in his ability to offend. At a nearby… More James L. Brooks (Terms of Endearment, Broadcast News) directed this $50 million-plus romantic comedy, set in Manhattan. Dysfunctional, acid-tongued romance novelist Melvin Udall (Jack Nicholson), who suffers from an obsessive-compulsive disorder, takes pride in his ability to offend. At a nearby cafe, the only waitress willing to stand up to his sarcastic tirades is Carol Connelly (Helen Hunt), a single mother struggling to raise her chronically asthmatic son. In Melvin's West Village apartment building, talented contemporary artist Simon Nye (Greg Kinnear) lives across the hall from Melvin. Simon is the current darling of the New York art world, reason enough to draw Melvin's verbal fire, but Simon's gay lifestyle is further grist for the novelist's malicious mill. These three New Yorkers, none of whom appears to have a chance in hell at finding true happiness, discover their fates intertwined because of the fourth complicated character in the piece, Verdell, a tiny Brussels Griffon dog (played by newcomer Jill, after a 15-week training program). Melvin seems to have no friends or family, and he lives alone, working on his 62nd book. When Simon goes into the hospital after a brutal mugging, Melvin has to take care of Verdell, and the dog actually warms Melvin's cold heart -- to the degree that he sets up unsolicited medical care for Carol's son. Eventually, Melvin is cornered into driving Simon and Carol to Baltimore, and during a hotel stopover, Melvin confesses to Carol, "You make me want to be a better man." The trip becomes an odyssey of self-realization for all three. Locations included Brooklyn's Prospect Park (Carol's neighborhood) and Greenwich Village (where Melvin's building is on 12th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues). Other exteriors were shot in downtown Los Angeles, where a dilapidated transient hotel at the corner of 4th Street and Main was transformed into the chic cafe where Carol works. Sets for the Simon/Melvin apartment interiors were erected on a soundstage at the Sony Pictures lot. Simon's paintings were created for the film by New York artist Billy Sullivan, whose work is part of the modern art collection at NYC's Metropolitan Museum of Art and the New Orleans Museum of Art. ~ Bhob Stewart, Rovi

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Rating, Runtime: PG-13, 2 hr. 19 min.
Directed By: James L. Brooks
Written By: Mark Andrus, James L. Brooks
Genres: Drama, Romance, Comedy

In Theaters: Dec 23, 1997 Wide
On DVD: May 19, 1998
Studio: TriStar Pictures

Critic Reviews

Todd McCarthy, Variety
A sporadically funny romantic comedy with all the dramatic plausibility and tonal consistency of a TV variety show.
Rick Groen, Globe and Mail
Romance comedies definitely come better than this, although perhaps not lately.
Lisa Schwarzbaum, Entertainment Weekly
It's fun to watch Jack Nicholson draw on great reservoirs of bile to play a mean SOB with an obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Kenneth Turan, Los Angeles Times
It's a mark of how magically written, directed and acted As Good as It Gets is that we end up loving this film despite knowing how haphazard, scattershot and almost indefinable its charm is.
Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times
The movie succeeds at many moments even while pursuing its doomed grand design.
Jonathan Rosenbaum, Chicago Reader
How [Brooks] emerged an abler artist is worth puzzling over; I suspect it has something to do with sheer instinct triumphing over industry machinery.
Kelly Kessler, Common Sense Media
Funny, but not a light comedy for youngsters.
Michael Dequina, TheMovieReport.com
The greatest pleasures come from the acting.
Sandra Contreras, TV Guide's Movie Guide
The movie's too long, and the direction is sometimes slack -- but the script is crammed with withering ripostes, ably delivered by Nicholson and Hunt.
Garth Franklin, Dark Horizons
Not only one of the best romantic comedies of the year, but one of the best films in ages.
Geoff Andrew, Time Out
The trouble lies in the rambling narrative, Brooks' cautious direction and the cosy tone which renders the whole thing reminiscent of an extended sitcom.
Emanuel Levy, EmanuelLevy.Com
Both funny and sad, the comedy was in the vein of Brooks' Terms of Endearment, except it was more eccentric and nuttier and in moments genuinely touching due to strong chemistry between Jack Nicholson and Helen Hunt.
Jake Euker, F5 (Wichita, KS)
An inflated TV show by a sitcom creator.
Anthony Miele, Film Threat
The character is written as the most unlikable person one could ever meet. Despite this fact, Jack manages to make the character sympathetic.
Steve Crum, Kansas City Kansan
The unpredictable and fresh 'As Good As It Gets' is peppered with memorable Brooks lines and physical schtick.
Robin Clifford, Reeling Reviews
Mildly likable.
Philip Martin, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
...a precariously balanced movie, one that flirts with smugness. That it isn't awful is in some respects amazing.
Jeffrey Overstreet, Looking Closer
... it coaxes us to be more open to each other, more compassionate, and more loving.
Judith Egerton, Courier-Journal (Louisville, KY)
Like Broadcast News, James L. Brooks' new film is a dark-edged adult comedy that hits the spot for those who like their romances splashed with acidic wit.
Dragan Antulov, rec.arts.movies.reviews
Even the familiar scenes and situations look refreshing.

Read all 24 critic reviews

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Featured Audience Ratings

Directors C

[img]http://images.rottentomatoes.com/images/user/icons/icon14.gif[/img] It's a touching romantic comedy that balances itself properly right in between being energetic and schmultsy. Nicholson is fantastic in his role as Melvin and the same goes for the supporting cast. The… More
[img]http://images.rottentomatoes.com/images/user/icons/icon14.gif[/img] It's a touching romantic comedy that balances itself properly right in between being energetic and schmultsy. Nicholson is fantastic in his role as Melvin and the same goes for the supporting cast. The direction is near solid but at time's bumbling and unnatural. It's a bit to lengthy but As Good as it Gets is a tremendously entertaining rom com of a high quality.
Alexander D

The way I see it, this film holds Jack Nicholson's most stellar delivery yet. He proves that he can use the same straightforward personality he did in films such as ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST and THE SHINING, whilst successfully adding in an original, comedic taste. In… More
The way I see it, this film holds Jack Nicholson's most stellar delivery yet. He proves that he can use the same straightforward personality he did in films such as ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST and THE SHINING, whilst successfully adding in an original, comedic taste. In more than just one scene, his character decides to cheer himself up by tickling out the ivories with an arrangement of "Always Look on the Bright Side of Life" from Monty Python's biblical satire LIFE OF BRIAN. In some restaurant scenes, it is unclear whether we should laugh or feel sympathetic when Jack's character insults waitresses: "What's wrong with your son?", "Get me Carol, Elephant-Girl," etc. In other scenes, such as the one in which Melvin tries conversing with Carol in her own house, as if talking to her during her working hours, to which she goes off the wall, we as the audience are obligated to do nothing but laugh. Alongside that is his typical sharp wit: for instance, when a woman asks Melvin how he writes woman so well, he replies, "I think of men. Then I take away reason and accountability." For someone who was bored stiff for nearly half of TERMS OF ENDEARMENT, the first collaboration between director James L. Brooks and actor Jack Nicholson, I was actually quite pleased with AS GOOD AS IT GETS, their second collaboration. Though I know Brooks much better for his screen writing work on TV's THE SIMPSONS, I find it easy to understand the humor he puts forth. His humor is different, and often subtle, but if he would direct more comedies like this, he would be well up there with Woody Allen and MEL Brooks on the ideal critic's list of greatest comedic filmmakers. Sadly, Brooks has only directed four other films than the ones mentioned: I'LL DO ANYTHING, BROADCAST NEWS, HOW DO YOU KNOW, SPANGLISH.
familiar s

Jack Nicholson aces as an OCD asshole in this romantic comedy that could have been better had it been shorter by at least 20 minutes. And it was easily possible in this case without losing its effectiveness (IMO, of course). Unfortunately, owing to this factor alone, its appeal gets a… More
Jack Nicholson aces as an OCD asshole in this romantic comedy that could have been better had it been shorter by at least 20 minutes. And it was easily possible in this case without losing its effectiveness (IMO, of course). Unfortunately, owing to this factor alone, its appeal gets a bit limited and I guess that those who aren't hardcore fans of the genre can afford to sleep on it. If at all, it could have been better used for some more character development (this excuse would still would leave us with some time in hand). Anyways, it's as good as it gets. Yet I can't look other way if asked whether or not it's impressive. After all, it's quite a high time I came across a movie that was so full of witty lines (including some memorable ones). If you're ready to sit through a few drags, it ought to pay off considerably well. Enjoy and have fun.
Martin S

A true feel-good-movie
Red L

I'm not sure why I like this movie. Perhaps the hope that the three lost souls can improve their lot in life. The movie is full of steps forward and steps backward - sort of like life. Anyway, all three leads play their roles well - Jack is an actor I love to hate, and sure… More
I'm not sure why I like this movie. Perhaps the hope that the three lost souls can improve their lot in life. The movie is full of steps forward and steps backward - sort of like life. Anyway, all three leads play their roles well - Jack is an actor I love to hate, and sure enough, his role in this movie is like many of his other roles.
Brad W

As Good As It Gets is the greatest romantic comedy ever, mostly because its actually funny. Dysfunctional, rude, romance writer Melvin (Jack Nicholson). Respecting and beautiful Carol (Helen Hunt) is the only one who can stand his insults and weirdness, which makes Melvin like her… More
As Good As It Gets is the greatest romantic comedy ever, mostly because its actually funny. Dysfunctional, rude, romance writer Melvin (Jack Nicholson). Respecting and beautiful Carol (Helen Hunt) is the only one who can stand his insults and weirdness, which makes Melvin like her very much. Homosexual neighbor to Melvin is Simon (Greg Kinnear), a kind hearted artist who has trouble dealing with Melvin. After Simon gets assaulted, Melvin must watch his annoying dog, but the dog teaches him to love something. This accident brings Melvin, Carol, and Simon together for a trip to get Simon money from his distant and very heartless parents. This trip will create friendships, relationships, and self peace. Jack Nicholson and Helen Hunt are the show stealers, their relationship never felt weird or wrong, more of we want them together. The story has so many sub plots you never feel like its boring, even if the ending became kinda slow. As Good As It Gets is one of those rare comedies where you feel a slight joy and sweetness when you laugh.
Michael E

Nicholson is a jackass in this film, he's a douche-bag, and I wanted to punch him in the face throughout the whole film. But he pulled this douche-bag off perfectly. Its not the most entertaining film I've seen, and the only thing I didn't like in this film, its… More
Nicholson is a jackass in this film, he's a douche-bag, and I wanted to punch him in the face throughout the whole film. But he pulled this douche-bag off perfectly. Its not the most entertaining film I've seen, and the only thing I didn't like in this film, its incredibly long, and incredibly slow, plus there is nothing eye popping or cool keeping you watching the film. So it was kind of hard to watch for me because of how there is nearly nothing entertaining keeping you watching. Not saying its not a bad movie its very good
♥Robyn

This film is very clever. Helen Hunts shines as a single mother and Jack Nicholson who is an obnoxious middle aged writer delivers as a man with compulsive obssesive disorder.Definitely a recipe for romance...love can always conquer the hardest of hearts....
Steven C

There is so much good in this film, it simply can't be ignored. Jack Nicholson, Helen Hunt and Greg Kinnear turn in some career best work (Nicholson and Hunt won Oscars) and James L. Brooks delivers plenty of lovely dialogue and some tender, personal, human situations for the… More
There is so much good in this film, it simply can't be ignored. Jack Nicholson, Helen Hunt and Greg Kinnear turn in some career best work (Nicholson and Hunt won Oscars) and James L. Brooks delivers plenty of lovely dialogue and some tender, personal, human situations for the characters to experience. While the romantic aspect never seems to truly work (thankfully the film ends before too much of it can be explored), the connections between the trio of characters is much stronger and resonant that the film ultimately works exceptionally well. "As Good As It Gets" is a solid film, full of heart, pathos and exceptional performances.
erika b

this is a good all around film.
Chris W

Great characters, excellent acting, and lots of humor and pathos highlight this charming and heartwarming human dramedy/romance story about damaged people sturggling for hope, help, and love. WHile not everyone can relate to the specifics of the characters, the general issues they… More
Great characters, excellent acting, and lots of humor and pathos highlight this charming and heartwarming human dramedy/romance story about damaged people sturggling for hope, help, and love. WHile not everyone can relate to the specifics of the characters, the general issues they deal with are realistically portrayed, believable, and relatable. This is great stuff. Jack and Helen defintiely deserved their Oscars for their work here, but I think Kinnear got robbed. He's also terrific. Even the little dog is very cute and memorable.
Lorenzo v

"Brace yourself for Melvin." A single mother/waitress, a misanthropic author, and a gay artist form an unlikely friendship <center>"Brace yourself for Melvin." A single mother/waitress, a misanthropic author, and a gay artist form an unlikely friendship <center>REVIEW</center> Another sitcom-style comedy for adults from James L. Brooks. Like all of Brooks' films, this one is well acted and written and it's always entertaining, but it's also unchallenging and cinematically uninteresting, and always feels slightly sanitized, even when it's dealing with rough topics. Jack Nicholson plays yet another version of crazy in the kind of role that his later career has been full of. Helen Hunt was hot at the moment because of "Mad About You," and while it's inconceivable all these years later that she actually won an Oscar for this film, her experience in sitcom acting suits Brooks and his material well (though there's quite an ick factor in seeing her paired with someone so much older and lecherous). Greg Kinnear rounds out the principal cast as a gay artist, while Shirley Knight and Cuba Gooding Jr. appear in smaller roles.
Emile T

This is, by far, one of the best performances by Jack Nicholson and a very well-deserved Oscar he got. It's as though the role had been written especially for him, he had it perfectly, and this is probably my favourite role of his. Helen Hunt was great, too, and I also loved… More
This is, by far, one of the best performances by Jack Nicholson and a very well-deserved Oscar he got. It's as though the role had been written especially for him, he had it perfectly, and this is probably my favourite role of his. Helen Hunt was great, too, and I also loved the screenplay. Overall, one of the most enjoyable comedy I've seen, a romantic film that manages to be heartwarming and never sound fake. I loved it.
Wahida K

A comedy from the heart that goes for the throat.
Cassandra M

Melvin is a romantic novelist who is a selfish manic compulsive who is rude and insulting to all he meets. When Melvin's gay neighbour is beaten up and robbed, Melvin agrees to look after his dog. The dog gives Melvin something to care about other than himself and his life is… More
Melvin is a romantic novelist who is a selfish manic compulsive who is rude and insulting to all he meets. When Melvin's gay neighbour is beaten up and robbed, Melvin agrees to look after his dog. The dog gives Melvin something to care about other than himself and his life is approaching normal until his regular waitress has to leave work to look after her asthmatic son and his neighbour wants his dog back. Melvin starts to realise that his life needs others for more than just selfish reasons. The big Oscar winner for Jack is recent years is enjoyable if you come to it knowing what to expect. The film is very sentimental but in a good way. The film is gently comic and amusing and the characters (although exaggerated) are winning and involving. The telling is a little long winded at times and the film could have been shorter but it is still enjoyable. It does tip over into sickly sentimentality at times and can be a bit syrupy but it comes with the territory. Nicholson is excellent and is the main reason it all works well. His un-PC Melvin is funny but also a character that you can hate and pity on several occasions. Kinnear is good because he is a solid understated character and not hammy or OTT like he can be. Hunt is good but is left with the majority of the syrup and sentiment where the other characters get more share of the laughs. Gooding Jr continues his trend of being good in over the top roles and is funny and happily avoids becoming a flaming gay stereotype. Overall this is a sentimental romantic comedy that is typical for the genre. The story wanders to it's point but the good cast, led by a great Nicholson, hold the whole thing together. A superior piece of sentimentality.
Anthony L

I?m not too sure why all the fuss over this film. Nicholson is good as always but I don?t think it?s one of his better films. James L. Brooks has certainly made better films and then there?s Helen I?m-not-sure-why-she?s-ever-been-cast-because-I-don?t-think-she?s-very-good-at-acting… More
I?m not too sure why all the fuss over this film. Nicholson is good as always but I don?t think it?s one of his better films. James L. Brooks has certainly made better films and then there?s Helen I?m-not-sure-why-she?s-ever-been-cast-because-I-don?t-think-she?s-very-good-at-acting Hunt and Cuba I-try-so-hard-but-never-quite-hit-the-spot Gooding Jr., two actors whom I?ve never been huge fans of!
♥˩ƳИИ &

Absolutely my number one movie from Jack Nicholson. I really enjoyed the story of this movie. Very sad, heart warming, and tragic. I thought Helen Hunt was amazing. She was just so good. Jack was amazing as he is in all his films. It was just a powerful movie with a great cast of… More
Absolutely my number one movie from Jack Nicholson. I really enjoyed the story of this movie. Very sad, heart warming, and tragic. I thought Helen Hunt was amazing. She was just so good. Jack was amazing as he is in all his films. It was just a powerful movie with a great cast of people. Jacks character was very funny but very judge mental. But he was just the kind of character that didn't think before he spoke and didn't understand why people got so upset with what he was saying. My favorite quote from Jacks character has be this line, "Go sell crazy someplace else, cause we are all stocked up here." Just really funny. The whole cast gave great performances. Really enjoyed Greg Kinnear in this movie as well. His character really pulls at your heart strings. Just really great all around movie.
Thomas B

beautiful story of an obsessive compulsive man. a really different take on an otherwise boring narrative
Dan S

A mostly well-balanced romantic comedy that features a Jack Nicholson I haven't seen before. It's uneven at times, and you do question the chemistry between Nicholson and Hunt occasionally, but overall it's ability to produce laughs, generate sympathy for… More
A mostly well-balanced romantic comedy that features a Jack Nicholson I haven't seen before. It's uneven at times, and you do question the chemistry between Nicholson and Hunt occasionally, but overall it's ability to produce laughs, generate sympathy for Nicholson's insecure character, as well as how it ends will win you over.
Cassie H

Jack Nicholson proves he has great acting in this movie.