Today’s quick review: The Upside. While looking for work, ex-con Dell Scott (Kevin Hart) stumbles into the wrong interview and accidentally applies to take care of Philip Lacasse (Bryan Cranston), a wealthy quadriplegic who’s all but given up on living. Philip hires Dell for the suicidal reason that he’s the least qualified for the job. But as the two men get to know each other, they end up forging a friendship that changes both of their lives.
The Upside is a heartfelt comedy that’s based on a true story. Kevin Hart stars as Dell Scott, a struggling ex-con who’s running low on second chances. Bryan Cranston plays opposite him as Philip Lacasse, an investor whose millions can’t restore the use of his body or bring back his dead wife. After a rocky acclimation period, the two men find ways to help each other: Dell teaches Philip to enjoy life again, while Philip gives Dell a way to make amends.
The Upside features light humor, adroit acting, and just the right amount of drama. Dell and Philip are immensely likable characters. Dell has the kind heart and brusque mannerisms needed to drag Philip out of his shell, and over the course of the movie, he visibly overcomes the habits that almost ruined his life. For his part, Philip makes for a sympathetic figure, with genuine struggles and the dry wit, tenacity, and burgeoning optimism to overcome them.
The Upside follows a recipe that’s simple and effective. The story itself is basically serious, chronicling a quadriplegic’s search for a reason to live and an ex-con’s attempts to escape his past. But the movie leavens its innate drama with plenty of humor, keeping the tone positive throughout. Kevin Hart and Bryan Cranston do an excellent job together, and their strong performances and infectious laughter give The Upside a potent core to work with.
Whether this recipe is right for you will depend on your taste in comedy. The jokes generally hit the mark, but they do skew lowbrow. The movie also downplays its drama in favor of comedy, trading the premise’s dramatic potential for a story that’s more uplifting and easy to digest. Finally, The Upside is heavily dependent on the viewer investing in its characters. Those who dislike Dell or Philip for whatever reason won’t get much from the movie.
Watch The Upside when you’re in the mood for a feel-good comedy that touches on some more serious themes. Two talented leads, likable characters, and a pleasant dusting of humor let The Upside hit the target it’s aiming for, at least for the right viewer. Steer clear if you’re looking for a more somber, cynical take on loss. For a more bittersweet comedy, try The Bucket List. For a more surreal comedy about fitting into high society, try Being There.
5.9 out of 10 on IMDB. I give it a 7.0 for great characters and effective humor.