American Splendor (2003)

About American Splendor

American Splendor is a biographical comedy-drama film about Harvey Pekar, the author of the American Splendor comic book series. The film is partly based on Pekar's comic book series, which he penned between 1976 and 2008. The narrative follows Pekar’s life events, including his job as a file clerk at the local VA hospital, his marriage to Joyce Brabner, and his bout with cancer.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini, and was produced by Ted Hope. It was shot in Cleveland and Lakewood in Ohio. Its unique narrative style combines standard movie scenes with documentary-style footage and animation to mirror the storytelling techniques used in Pekar's comic books.

Actors

• Paul Giamatti portrayed Harvey Pekar, effectively bringing to life the protagonist's cynical and observational humor.
• Hope Davis played Joyce Brabner, Pekar's supportive and loving wife, delivering a solid performance.
• Judah Friedlander portrayed Toby Radloff, a genuine nerd and Pekar's coworker at the VA hospital.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The real Harvey Pekar and Toby Radloff have cameo roles in the movie.
• American Splendor won the Grand Jury Prize for Dramatic Film at the 2003 Sundance Film Festival.

Awards

The film, American Splendor, was a critical success. It won the Grand Jury Prize at the 2003 Sundance Film Festival and was nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay at the 76th Academy Awards.

Quotes

• "Ordinary life is pretty complex stuff." - Harvey Pekar
• "You might as well do something while you're doing nothing." - Harvey Pekar

Music and Soundtrack

• The film's soundtrack was released by New Line Records and features a combination of Dizzie Gillespie, Marvin Gaye, and some original music by Mark Suozzo and Marc Shaiman.