“Less is more” is a phrase that is synonymous with the new Netflix film “Paddleton.” Written by siblings Mark and Jay Duplass, this 89-minute tale hits heavy topics with a light-hearted aroma. The true bonds of friendship are tested through the eyes of mortality, and director Alex Lehmann keeps it small and low fare with his approach toward the material.
The story opens with Michael (Mark Duplass, “Tully”) being diagnosed with terminal cancer, with his older neighbor Andy (Ray Romano, “Get Shorty”) awkwardly questioning the nurse. Their mundane life consists of eating pizza, watching retro kung fu movies and playing a game they created called Paddleton. This unique lifestyle is compromised now that Michael’s days are numbered, and they must adapt.
A key element to any buddy film is the chemistry of the two male leads. Straight-laced Duplass and the lovable Romano go together like Abbott and Costello. The two men are each other’s best (and only) friends. Andy is very socially inept, and Michael constantly has to watch over him during public appearances. Their relationship resembles Tom Cruise and Dustin Hoffman’s roles in the 1988 masterpiece “Rain Man.” Romano’s career has evolved greatly since his career breakthrough in the 90’s classic “Everybody Loves Raymond.” Duplass continues his trend of playing an everyday Joe with deep emotional layers.
The Duplass-penned script takes on the idea of death with quirky humor. Andy’s idiosyncrasies are highlighted with Michael trying to understand them. Their banter over odd topics establishes a fluid connection that brings them closer together. Andy also frequently uses pop culture references to get his messages across, subtly showing his lack of human interaction. The dialogue contains frequent brief pauses between lines that enhances the authenticity of the characters.
At times, the central focus of the plot is hidden due to the simplicity of the film. Some viewers might lose interest due to certain questions remaining unanswered. “Paddleton” is a candid piece revolving around death that solemnly ponders the meaning of existence. The low-budget affair is a breath of fresh air in relation to overblown blockbusters.
The beauty of the film is it leaves people wanting more, just like Andy wants more time with Michael. All of humanity inevitably faces true loss, and the pains of this hardship are displayed tremendously. The final half hour is a tear-jerking ride of vulnerability and sincerity. The Twilight Zone episode “Time Enough at Last” comes to mind when thinking about the stages of grief that form as Michael’s health deteriorates.
The work is highly aware of its semblance toward being one’s self. The two men do not have any dramatic life goals. They just want to enjoy each day to the fullest and play some Paddleton. The memories they create are endowed with tenderness, warmth and confusion as Michael faces bodily expiration.
“Paddleton” continues the trend of Netflix producing quality content. It is a film that sticks with viewers hours after ending because we all have experienced true loss. As the famous saying goes, “Death is only the beginning.”
Image from Netflix via YouTube
