Paul Giamatti (Private Parts) truly defines himself as one of our time's most underrated actors with his take on the true life personality Harvey Pekar (Pee-Car not Peh-ker), the creator of "American Splendor" comic book.

"American Splendor," both the comic book and the movie, follows Pekar's look into his own dismal nature. He maintains a "doom and gloom" way of looking at his life and loneliness. That is, until he meets Joyce, who he marries quickly. Before that, Pekar finds small success after famed illustrator Robert Crumb takes an interest in his writing.

As Pekar and Joyce strive to fit their unusual behaviors into one another's life, Pekar and his comic book continue to get national notoriety with appearances on the "Late Night with David Letterman" show in New York.

The storyline of the movie is extremely dismal, much like Pekar's view on most things in his life. However, the picture is made with a semi-documentary style, as the actual Harvey Pekar offers narration to the film and is consistently interviewed throughout portions of the picture.

Other characters' true life inspirations to make appearances included Joyce and fellow office worker Marty, brilliantly portrayed by Danny Hoch. Indie film queen Hope Davis (The Daytrippers) offers a massive notch to her resume as Joyce.

The other most interesting performance comes from James Urbaniak (Sweet and Lowdown) as the odd natured cartoonist Crumb, the father of the west coast underground comic book scene. A picture was made about him a few years ago titled "Crumb."

Giamatti is the best reason to watch this picture. He was truly the best casting decision directors Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini could have made, the same team to bring "The Young and the Dead" to screens in 2000.

The DVD specials are exceptional, and although yes the picture has an indie feel, which some may not get into, it is one of the most enjoyable and unique pictures I've seen on disc in a while. Give it a try.

Benn - Where's the Humanity?