BARNEY’S VERSION

Every story has at least two sides, every event more than one version. Barney’s Version, the new film by Richard J. Lewis, based on Mordecai Richler’s prize-winning comic novel, is seen through the eyes of a man who is so unlovable in so many different ways, you somehow can’t help but take his side. Laughing, crying and cringing, as Barney stumbles through his awkward love life, the version of events you come away with is centred around the fact that you’ve just seen something beautiful, and want to share it with others. The performances (bar some minor characters) are flawless, the script hilarious. And Barney’s bitter-sweet life is a wonderful trip down memory lane. (LZ) ****1/2