Barnes & Noble

Hollywood Renaissance man Steve Martin, adapting his critically acclaimed novella Shopgirl, also takes a lead role in this small yet fully satisfying film. Shopgirl may not illuminate any Big Truths or break new ground in screen storytelling, but it does explore its central character relationships in a more realistic, non-sugarcoated manner than typical Hollywood romances. Martin’s character, wealthy bachelor Ray Porter, takes an interest in Mirabelle Buttersfield (Claire Danes), an aspiring artist who works at the glove counter in Saks while honing her talent. Although he’s old enough to be Mirabelle’s father, Ray finds the alluring young woman smart, attractive, and enchanting, and in short order he makes her a trophy girlfriend. This arrangement suits Mirabelle, at least for the time being, because Ray’s money enables her to experience things that would otherwise be beyond her reach. Of course, there’s a fly in the ointment: her other suitor, Jeremy (Jason Schwartzman), who lacks Ray’s sophistication and standing but has charms of his own. The story is told with refreshing maturity and frankness, the narrative unfolding in unpredictable turns. For these reasons alone, Shopgirl would merit attention; but the cake’s icing is the tremendously appealing performances of the starring trio. With this delicate treat, the multitasking Martin can add another feather to his cap. Ed Hulse

All Movie Guide

Steve Martin wrote the screenplay and served as co-producer for this screen adaptation of his short novel, which takes a witty but bittersweet look at a young woman and the two men involved with her. Mirabelle Buttersfield (Claire Danes) is an aspiring artist in her mid-twenties who, after graduating from college, moved to Los Angeles, where she works at the glove counter of an upscale department store. Mirabelle's job is simple and not demanding, but it doesn't pay especially well, and she finds herself struggling to get out from under a growing mountain of debt from student loans and credit cards. One night, while doing her laundry, Mirabelle meets Jeremy (Jason Schwartzman), a scruffy but likable would-be musician who makes ends meet selling guitar amps. While Jeremy is obviously infatuated with Mirabelle, she isn't sure how she feels about him, especially after she meets Ray Porter (Steve Martin), a man in his fifties whom she meets at the store. Ray is independently wealthy, intelligent, and charming, and after asking her out on a date he sweeps her off her feet. However, while Mirabelle quickly falls for Ray and he's generous to a fault with her, he refuses to commit exclusively to her and suggests they should both see other people, a prospect that no longer holds much appeal for her. Shopgirl received its world premiere at the 2005 Toronto Film Festival. Mark Deming

Product Details

• UPC: 786936282986
• Source: TOUCHSTONE / DISNEY
• Region Code: 1
• Aspect Ratio: Cinemascope (2.35:1)
• Presentation: Wide Screen
• Sound: Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround
• Language: English, Français, Español
• Subtitles: English, Français, Español
• Time: 1:46:00
• Sales Rank: 6,757

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