The Upside (2017): A Feel-Good Film
Hey guys! Today, we're diving into the heartwarming world of "The Upside," a 2017 film that's sure to leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. This movie is a remake of the French film "Intouchables", and it brings a fresh perspective to a story about friendship, overcoming challenges, and finding joy in unexpected places. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's explore what makes "The Upside" such a captivating watch!
Overview of The Upside
The Upside is a comedy-drama directed by Neil Burger and stars Bryan Cranston, Kevin Hart, and Nicole Kidman. Released in 2017, the film tells the story of Phillip Lacasse (Cranston), a wealthy quadriplegic, and Dell Scott (Hart), a parolee who becomes his unlikely caregiver. Despite their vastly different backgrounds and initial reservations, Phillip and Dell form a deep bond that transforms both of their lives. The film is an adaptation of the 2011 French film, "Intouchables", which was inspired by the true story of Philippe Pozzo di Borgo and his caretaker, Abdel Sellou. "The Upside" explores themes of friendship, empathy, and personal growth, all wrapped in a package of humor and heart. The film's success lies in its ability to balance comedic moments with genuine emotional depth, making it a feel-good movie that resonates with a wide audience. The dynamic between Cranston and Hart is particularly noteworthy, as their contrasting styles create a compelling and entertaining on-screen chemistry. Through their interactions, the film challenges stereotypes and highlights the importance of seeing beyond superficial differences. Overall, "The Upside" is a testament to the power of human connection and the ability to find joy and meaning in the most unexpected circumstances.
The Plot: A Journey of Friendship
The Upside's plot revolves around Phillip Lacasse, a sophisticated and wealthy man who becomes a quadriplegic after a paragliding accident. Needing constant care, Phillip interviews numerous candidates to find the right person to assist him with his daily needs. Enter Dell Scott, a man down on his luck and fresh out of prison. Dell stumbles into the interview by accident, seeking a signature to prove he's actively looking for work to satisfy his parole requirements. Phillip, intrigued by Dell's unconventional and unfiltered approach, decides to hire him. Initially, Dell is woefully unprepared for the responsibilities of caring for someone with such complex needs. He struggles with the medical equipment, lacks experience, and often says the wrong things. However, Phillip sees something in Dell – a spark of life and authenticity that he finds refreshing. As Dell settles into his role, he and Phillip begin to connect on a deeper level. Dell introduces Phillip to his world, taking him to his favorite local spots and sharing his taste in music and art. In turn, Phillip exposes Dell to the finer things in life, like opera and sophisticated art. Through these shared experiences, they challenge each other to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new perspectives. Their friendship blossoms as they learn from one another, offering support, laughter, and a renewed sense of purpose. The plot beautifully illustrates how two individuals from completely different walks of life can come together, overcome their personal challenges, and enrich each other's lives in profound ways. The film's emotional core is the genuine connection between Phillip and Dell, making it a heartwarming and uplifting story about the power of friendship.
Main Characters: A Dynamic Duo
The characters in "The Upside" are what truly drive the film's emotional impact and comedic appeal. Phillip Lacasse, played by Bryan Cranston, is a sophisticated, wealthy man who becomes a quadriplegic after a paragliding accident. Despite his physical limitations, Phillip possesses a sharp wit and a thirst for life. He is intelligent, cultured, and yearns for more than just basic care. Cranston's portrayal captures Phillip's vulnerability, resilience, and underlying desire for connection. Dell Scott, portrayed by Kevin Hart, is a parolee struggling to make ends meet and reconnect with his estranged son. Dell is rough around the edges, lacks formal education, and often relies on humor to navigate difficult situations. Hart brings his signature comedic energy to the role, but also showcases Dell's genuine heart and desire to improve his life. Their contrasting personalities and backgrounds create a dynamic and engaging on-screen partnership. Phillip challenges Dell to be more responsible and embrace new experiences, while Dell encourages Phillip to let loose and rediscover the joy in life. Nicole Kidman plays Yvonne, Phillip's dedicated and efficient assistant. Yvonne is initially skeptical of Dell's ability to care for Phillip, but she gradually comes to appreciate his positive influence on her employer. Yvonne serves as a grounding force, providing stability and support to both Phillip and Dell. The supporting characters, including Dell's ex-girlfriend Latrice (Aja Naomi King) and Phillip's pen pal Lily (Julianna Margulies), add depth and complexity to the story, highlighting the importance of relationships and personal growth. Together, the characters in "The Upside" create a rich and compelling narrative about friendship, empathy, and the transformative power of human connection.
Themes Explored: More Than Just a Comedy
While "The Upside" is filled with humor and lighthearted moments, it also delves into several important themes that resonate with audiences on a deeper level. One of the primary themes is friendship. The film beautifully illustrates how a meaningful connection can form between two people from vastly different backgrounds, challenging stereotypes and preconceived notions. Phillip and Dell's friendship transcends their circumstances, providing them with support, laughter, and a renewed sense of purpose. The movie also explores the theme of overcoming adversity. Phillip, as a quadriplegic, faces daily challenges that require immense strength and resilience. Dell, on the other hand, struggles with his past mistakes and the desire to rebuild his life. Both characters learn to confront their obstacles, find new ways to cope, and ultimately grow as individuals. Empathy is another significant theme in "The Upside." The film encourages viewers to see beyond superficial differences and understand the experiences of others. Phillip and Dell learn to appreciate each other's perspectives, fostering a sense of compassion and mutual respect. Furthermore, the movie touches on the theme of personal growth. Both Phillip and Dell undergo significant transformations throughout the story. Phillip rediscovers his zest for life, while Dell learns to take responsibility for his actions and strive for a better future. The exploration of these themes elevates "The Upside" beyond a simple comedy, making it a thought-provoking and emotionally rewarding film that celebrates the power of human connection and the ability to find joy in the face of adversity.
Production and Reception
The production of "The Upside" faced its fair share of challenges and triumphs on its way to the big screen. Originally, the rights to adapt "Intouchables" were acquired by The Weinstein Company, but the film's release was delayed due to the Harvey Weinstein scandal. Eventually, STX Entertainment stepped in to distribute the movie. Directed by Neil Burger, known for his work on "Divergent" and "Limitless," the film aimed to strike a balance between comedy and heartfelt drama. The casting of Bryan Cranston and Kevin Hart was crucial to the film's success, as their on-screen chemistry and comedic timing were essential to bringing the story to life. Filming took place in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and various locations were used to showcase the contrasting worlds of Phillip and Dell. Upon its release in 2017 (though some sources list it as 2019 due to release delays), "The Upside" received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the performances of Cranston and Hart, as well as the film's heartwarming message and comedic moments. Others criticized the movie for being too formulaic and lacking the depth of the original French film. Despite the mixed critical reception, "The Upside" was a box office success, grossing over $100 million domestically. Audiences were drawn to the film's feel-good story and the dynamic between the two lead actors. The film's success can be attributed to its ability to resonate with a wide audience, offering a blend of humor, heart, and a message of hope and friendship. While it may not have been a critical darling, "The Upside" proved to be a crowd-pleaser, demonstrating the enduring appeal of stories that celebrate human connection and the triumph over adversity.
Why You Should Watch It
So, why should you add "The Upside" to your must-watch list? Well, for starters, it's a feel-good movie that's guaranteed to lift your spirits. The film's heartwarming story and comedic moments make it a perfect choice for a relaxing movie night. The dynamic between Bryan Cranston and Kevin Hart is simply captivating. Their on-screen chemistry is undeniable, and they bring their characters to life with humor, heart, and genuine emotion. "The Upside" also offers a fresh perspective on the importance of friendship and human connection. The film challenges stereotypes and encourages viewers to see beyond superficial differences. It's a reminder that meaningful relationships can form in the most unexpected places. Furthermore, the movie explores themes of overcoming adversity and personal growth. It's an inspiring story about two individuals who face their challenges head-on and learn to find joy and purpose in their lives. If you're looking for a movie that will make you laugh, cry, and leave you feeling good about the world, then "The Upside" is definitely worth watching. It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, friendship and human connection can make all the difference. So, grab your popcorn, gather your friends, and get ready to experience the heartwarming magic of "The Upside." You won't be disappointed!
