This is B. J. Novak's theatrical debut as a triple threat writer/director/actor. I always take a particular interest in these types of films, as they are probably the closest that Hollywood ever gets to delivering a truly singular artistic vision. So, how successful was Mr. Novak's vision? It's interesting, this was a case where I really think the writing is what carried the day. The story is clever and compelling, with plenty of thought provoking ideas and commentary. The meta aspect of the podcast allows the film to include both self-aware pseudo-intellectual musings, as well as more genuine intellectual musings. In both cases, the dialogue is well written and the performances excellent. The movie's humor is also plentiful and well executed, never feeling out of place with the mystery/thriller elements. As far as story criticisms go, I do think the finale feels a bit too Hollywood, but the execution is good enough that it still works.
Regarding the acting, B. J. Novak was good in the central role, but I really enjoyed the ensemble. Having just watched Boyd Holbrook on Netflix's The Sandman, it was entertaining to see him playing such a different role, and I thought he was excellent. I was also surprised to enjoy Ashton Kutcher's scenes.
Finally, on the direction, my gut reaction is to call it serviceable. I'm no expert, but it just seemed pretty unambitious and straightforward. At the end of the day, it doesn't add or detract from the film. It just captures the story, which is all it needed to do. Regardless, as long as Mr. Novak can keep writing stories this well, I'll keep watching his films.
Review by SkinnyFilmBuffVIP 8BlockedParent2022-08-28T16:43:21Z
This is B. J. Novak's theatrical debut as a triple threat writer/director/actor. I always take a particular interest in these types of films, as they are probably the closest that Hollywood ever gets to delivering a truly singular artistic vision. So, how successful was Mr. Novak's vision? It's interesting, this was a case where I really think the writing is what carried the day. The story is clever and compelling, with plenty of thought provoking ideas and commentary. The meta aspect of the podcast allows the film to include both self-aware pseudo-intellectual musings, as well as more genuine intellectual musings. In both cases, the dialogue is well written and the performances excellent. The movie's humor is also plentiful and well executed, never feeling out of place with the mystery/thriller elements. As far as story criticisms go, I do think the finale feels a bit too Hollywood, but the execution is good enough that it still works.
Regarding the acting, B. J. Novak was good in the central role, but I really enjoyed the ensemble. Having just watched Boyd Holbrook on Netflix's The Sandman, it was entertaining to see him playing such a different role, and I thought he was excellent. I was also surprised to enjoy Ashton Kutcher's scenes.
Finally, on the direction, my gut reaction is to call it serviceable. I'm no expert, but it just seemed pretty unambitious and straightforward. At the end of the day, it doesn't add or detract from the film. It just captures the story, which is all it needed to do. Regardless, as long as Mr. Novak can keep writing stories this well, I'll keep watching his films.