High Fidelity (2000)

Genre: Comedy / Drama

Directed by: Stephen Frears

Starring: John Cusack, Jack Black, Lisa Bonet, Joelle Carter

Running time: 113 minutes

Based on the British novel of the same name written by Nick Hornby, High Fidelity tells the story of Rob Gordon, a melomaniac and owner of a music store. After getting dumped by another girl, Gordon decides to look up his former flames to see what happened and to find out if he is to blame for the failed relationships.

John Cusack offers a solid performance here as Rob Gordon. This character felt so real, and the fact that he spoke directly to the camera at times made you feel like you were really walking into someone else’s life and being privy to some intimate information.

I could personally identify with the Rob Gordon character, especially when it came to the discussions he had in the music store with his employees. I have often been accused in the past of being a musical elitist, and I have judged people on their musical tastes. It was funny to see these guys act that way and I could relate. And I cannot tell you how many discussions of the top 5 genre I have had with a few friends of mine.

All things considered, High Fidelity is a very good character study of a guy looking for answers about himself. The character, in all his selfishness and self-centeredness, felt as real as anyone you can meet on the street. It took me a while to be hooked by this film, but, once I got in, it was a great entertaining ride. And, what soundtrack!

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