In The Mix — Video

Last year’s best performance by an actor did not come from Russell Crowe. It came from this little gem, featuring career-best work by Michael Douglas as a confused writer trying to produce his second novel while dealing with romance problems, a deranged student (Tobey Maguire) and dead dogs. The film is a pleasure to watch, with Douglas putting on a few pounds and looking every bit his age. After a slew of bad sex thrillers, it’s nice to see the direction that Douglas has chosen for his career. His picture selections have more edge, and this is one of the goofiest films he’s ever loaned his presence to. The DVD features include cast and crew interviews and the “Things Have Changed” Bob Dylan music video. Directed by Curtis Hanson, maker of L.A. Confidential.