The movie About Schmidt was released in 2002 and directed by Alexander Payne. The film stars Jack Nicholson in the lead role of Warren Schmidt. The screenplay for the movie was adapted by Alexander Payne and Jim Taylor from the novel of the same name by Louis Begley.
The character of Schmidt is a retired insurance salesman who is struggling to find meaning in his life. He is not entirely happy with his existence, as his wife, who convinced him to buy a motor home, annoys him, and he doesn't approve of his daughter's upcoming marriage.
When his wife suddenly dies, Schmidt is forced to confront his feelings about his own life and marriage. He begins to reevaluate the choices he has made and the relationships he has formed. In his grief, he sets out on a journey to try and prevent his daughter's marriage to the man he does not like.
Along the way, he meets a variety of characters who help him to process his emotions and come to new realizations. The film explores themes of grief, family, regret, and aging.
Despite its serious subject matter, the movie has moments of humor and absurdity. Jack Nicholson's performance as Warren Schmidt was widely praised, and he received an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. The film was also well-received by critics and was nominated for several additional awards, including Best Picture, Best Director, and Best Adapted Screenplay.