Alexander Payne’s film, “Sideways,” with its introspective plot and sporadic humor, is the official under dog at this year’s Oscars.

Despite his depression and increasing anxiety problem, Miles Raymond (Paul Giamatti) takes his friend Jack (Thomas Haden Church) on one last adventure to the California wine country before he weds. Jack wishes for one last fling before settling down while Miles questions the decisions he made in life and whether he should pursue fellow wine enthusiast Maya.

The plot simmers during the hour-and-a-half run but fails to climax in the end. Acting by Giamatti and Church is the only aspect of the film that makes it noticeable. Giamatti’s haunting portrayal of a man who has reached the end of his rope has you hoping you’re not going to end up the same way. Church’s depiction of a middle-aged actor who has already passed his prime adds to what little humor that already exists in the film.

Possibly it’s my age that blinds me from the true brilliance of “Sideways.” But like David and Goliath, it has a few giants to knock out.