The Fabulous Baker Boys was Steve Kloves's first time in the director's seat and only his second screenwriting credit, but nowhere does the inexperience show. He confidently crafts a story rich with realistic characters, genuine feeling, and an ample amount of beautiful music. Not a lot actually happens in the film, but that's part of its charm. Casting real-life brothers Jeff Bridges and Beau Bridges made Kloves' job a lot easier: they're so convincing that one wonders whether the story might have touched on any actual rivalries between them. Michelle Pfeiffer earned an Oscar nomination for one of her finest performances; her classic piano-top rendition of "Makin' Whoopee" is enough to make the film worth seeing. Cinematographer Michael Ballhaus also deserves credit for his work here, bringing a sensual glow to the film and the performers.