Wilson Joel's (Philip Seymour Hoffman) wife, Liza, has committed suicide, leaving behind a note that he can't bear to read. He tries to go about his usual routine, but when his coworkers start to worry about his erratic behavior, they convince him to take a leave of absence to deal with his loss. Liza's mother (Kathy Bates) offers support to Wilson, but when she finds out that he won't open the note, their relationship turns sour. Wilson's life becomes even more tragic when he begins sniffing gasoline as a means to dull his pain, explaining his gas consumption as the result of his interest in model airplanes.

A film about grief that provides no easy answers, LOVE LIZA showcases an exceptionally strong lead performance by Hoffman. Wilson's misguided grieving process may be difficult viewing for some, especially during moments which come off as absurdly comic (cued by Jim O'Rourke's superb bossa nova influenced score). But under the direction of first-timer Todd Louiso, this very subtle and deliberately paced work will reward anyone willing to go to the often uncomfortable places it reaches. The strikingly original screenplay by Gordy Hoffman (brother of the film's star) was the winner of the Waldo Salt Screenwriting award at the 2002 Sundance Film Festival.

Theatrical Release: DECEMBER 30, 2002 (NY/LA)

DVD Features:

Region 1
Keep Case
Letterbox - 1.85
Widescreen - 1.85
Audio:
Dolby Digital 2.0 - English
Additional Release Material:
Trailers
Audio Commentary: Phillip Seymour Hoffman - Star, Gordy Hoffman -
Screenwriter, Todd Louiso - Director
Interactive Features:
Scene Selection
Interactive Menus
Text/Photo Galleries:
Filmographies
DVD-ROM Features:
Weblink

Philip Seymour Hoffman: Oscar-winning actor, CAPOTE, DOUBT
Kathy Bates: Oscar winning actress, MISERY
Erika Alexander: African American television actress
JD Walsh: Actor, LOVE LIZA (2002)
Jimmy Raskin: Actor, LOVE LIZA (2002)
Jack Kehler: Actor
Sarah Koskoff: Actor, LOVE LIZA (2002)

Todd Louiso: 

Ruth Charny: Producer
Chris Hanley: Producer
Jeff Roda: Producer, LOVE LIZA (2002)
Fernando Sulichin: ASSOCIATE PRODUCER

Gordy Hoffman: Screenwriter, LOVE LIZA (2002)

"...LOVE LIZA is a low-key labor of love that strikes a very resonant chord..."
"...The purpose of a movie like this is to inspire thoughts about human nature....There is a kind of attentive concern that Hoffman brings to his characters..."
"...Hoffman acts the hell out of the role..."
"...Information is conveyed with deft economy....Louiso introduces a few well-paced flourishes..."
"...Hoffman is superb....Todd Louiso's nuanced direction frequently allows silent action to speak louder than words..."
"...A piercing study of spousal grief..."