Recently, I saw a film that I consider intellegent with gifted actors, a wonderful script, and great staging. It is Barney's Vison. Finally a film without pyrotechniques. A film for adults. A powerful film that moves gently through a man's life, exploring his choices and his relationships. Leonard Cohen soundtrack is a perfect compliment. Based on Mordecai Richler's book of the same name, Canadian director, Robert Lantos spent 10 years trying to get it made, discarding script after script, including two by Richler, until it was just right. Barney Panofsky, played by Paul Giamatti, is a 65 year old, hard-drinking, cigar-smoking, foulmouthed, hockey fanatic and Montreal television producer, reflects on his life's successes and failures as his final years come sharply into focus. Gianatti won a best actor Golden Globe for his performaces. The film is not all about Giamatti, additional convincing performances are turned in by Dustin Hoffman, Rosemund Pike and Minnie Driver. If you missed it in the theaters, reserve the DVD by calling the library 860-673-9712.