Roger Dodger

Roger is an eloquent and condescending advertising man who does not exactly have a romantic view of relations between the sexes. Despite his materialistic philosophy he is deeply hurt when his female boss breaks up with him in rather blunt fashion. He vents his anger by humiliating others verbally.

Roger is still seething with rage inside when his nephew, 16-year-old Nick, drops by. Nick looks up to his slick uncle and is unable to see through his facade. So he is immediately up for it when Roger offers to give him a lesson in how to pick up women. It turns into a long night on the town, but it proves at least as much of a turning point for the innocent Nick as for Roger. Nick learns a thing or two about women and sex, while Roger's cynicism is challenged by humanity and genuine feelings.

Roger Dodger is a moral tale without being moralising. Its strength lies in the performances and the witty, sharp dialogue. Visually the film feels downright claustrophobic in places because of the night-dark images and the many close-ups.