Tag: comedy

The more suicidal people there are, the less suicidal people there are. “The Friend” (2024)

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directed by Scott McGehee & David Siegel
© 2024 Universal Pictures. All Rights Reserved.

There’s a dog. That should be enough to make you watch the film. No? Ugh, someone’s being picky. Alright, I’ll try to handle that. We get to know Iris (Naomi Watts), a writer who also works at a university. She learns about the death of her friend and mentor, Walter (Bill Murray). The man has committed suicide, leaving everyone speechless. Iris is deeply moved by his passing, but soon her life is about to change in a way she would never imagine. Walter had a dog. Not a puppy, not a little fluffy buddy, but a DOG. Apollo is a Great Dane and you know who gets to take care of him now? Yes, the heart-broken, single writer Iris, who definitely doesn’t need such responsibility in her life now. Or does she? At first, the woman sees that Apollo misses Walter and struggles to get used to the new situation. While she’s trying her best to help him, Iris realises that she’s also in a horrible grief. Turns out that the big doggo that steals her bed and causes unexpected problems might be the only way to move on. It’s one of those stories that feel like a warm scarf made by your granny. It’s still freezing outside, but the scarf keeps you warm and comfy. Perhaps I’m not being objective here, because I find dogs to be the absolute best friends to humans (and other creatures), but this film might be of great support if you’ve just lost someone important. It reminds us to stop being the firefighter that always saves others. We really need to stop for a moment and clean our own wounds before jumping into somebody else’s fire. Also, admitting that we’re not doing well is a sign of the biggest strength in the world. And if you want to make a step and admit it, perhaps a dog would be the greatest companion in the process. I hope you will feel comfy after watching this film.

My rating: 6/10
S.

I make door. You close door. “Project Hail Mary” (2026)

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directed by Phil Lord & Christopher Miller
© 2026 Sony Pictures Releasing International. All Rights Reserved.

An adult version of a story about a little boy and his rock friend. Literally. Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling) is a very dedicated teacher and a former molecular biologist. One day, he wakes up in a spaceship, not remembering a thing. And they say that nerds don’t know how to party, huh? Turns out, he was chosen to go on a space mission with two other specialists and try to save our planet Earth from… freezing. I won’t even try to explain the whole problem, because I’m no scientist and to me it’s just “blah blah blah our planet is in danger blah blah blah”, but the idea seems fun (despite the potential catastrophy). Unfortunately for Grace, the two other colleagues have died, so he has to continue the mission on his own. Soon, a new companion joins him – an alien that looks like a rock on five legs. Grace finds a way to translate its language and communicate. The alien (James Ortiz), named Rocky by the very creative biologist, turns out to have a similar mission. Its planet is also in danger, because of the same reason, so it’s trying to find a way to save it. The newly buddies join forces and try to solve the space riddle together. Sounds like a cute adventure film? Well, it sort of is. The relation between those two is truly adorable, but it’s also a lesson about the dark side of humanity. I don’t want to spoil too much, because the suspense makes the story even better. However, I know that Rocky is an alien, but I believe this films is a metaphor for friendship beyond borders. That if only we cared enough to stay patient and try to communicate, we might meet the best buddies in our life, perhaps better than those beside us. Even if those two space warriors are from two different planets (literally), they shared a common goal. Do you think a human and a rock-like alien can actually save the universe? Well, that’s for you to see. But I hope this story will encourage you to stay more open-minded in life. And choose your own path.

My rating: 7/10
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I think I’m going to start loving my body actually a bit more. “Je m’appelle Agneta” (2026)

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directed by Johanna Runevad
© 2026 Netflix. All Rights Reserved.

I can’t express how much joy this comedy brought me. Even though I’m younger than the main character, I was cheering her this whole time and hope to be equally brave when I’m older. Agneta (Eva Melander) is a Scandinavian middle-aged woman that loses her job and feels lonely despite being married. She makes a crazy decision to go to France and become an au-pair to some Swedish boy. Her husband finds it ridiculous, but Agneta wishes to experience a different culture and continue working. When she arrives in France, the boy turns out to be an elderly man named Einar (Claes Månsson). And indeed, he’s so eccentric that a caretaker is needed to keep him safe. At first Agneta gets scared and thinks of going home, but she decides to stay and try to get on with her ward. The longer she’s in France, the more familiar she becomes with its culture. Thanks to the friendship with Einar, the woman also rediscovers herself. Being a terrified housewife with numerous complexes is definitely not Agneta. It’s a beautiful and hilarous story reminind us that self-worth might be found at any stage of life. Of course, it’s best to find it early, but, as they say, better late than never. I wish everyone to see this film, because no matter who you are, we all need such good energy boost. I know it sounds cheap, but I mean it – life is too short to worry. What will you remember when you’re old? That you looked fat in that dress or that someone was staring at you doing something? Or will you remember all the cool things that you’ve achieved and experienced? I no longer recall most anxious thoughts of mine, but I do remember where I’ve been, what I’ve done and I feel so proud of myself for being that brave. Send this film to your mothers, grandmothers, aunts, sisters and also make sure to watch it yourself. Wish you a very joyful evening!

My rating: 7/10
S.

Birdie Num Num. “The Party” (1968)

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directed by Blake Edwards
© 1968 United Artists. All Rights Reserved.

We need a bit of comedy to relax, right? Recently, I’ve been watching quite difficult productions and I feel like letting my brain have some days off. Today, I’d like to recommend you an adorable and horribly goofy film from the 60s, which is a proof that white people create irrational problems. But first, let me share a few words about the plot. Hrundi V. Bakshi (Peter Sellers) is an actor of Indian origin. He’s a bit clumsy and makes a huge mess on a film set. The head of the studio wants to write his name on the blacklist, but accidentally the actor ends up on the guest list of the upcoming party. Hrudi gets an invitation and accepts it, which means he ends up in a huge richman’s house with lots of vain white human parasites. It’s clear that it’s not the social level he’s used to and most interractions with others turn out quite funny. At some point, Hrundi meets Michèle (Claudine Longet), an aspiring actress, who doesn’t seem to be prejudiced against him purely based on his skin colour. The party continues and what comes out of it is for you to see. Many reviewers were outraged that someone dared to paint their face brown and pretend to be Indian. That’s so disrespectful! Mhm… yeah, and in the meantime, people in India loved the comedy. Even the Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi recommended this film, praising it for Hrundi’s lines. And it’s true that the Indian actor is presented as a very good human being. Plus, in Bollywood productions they often make fun of themselves and nobody gets actually offended. So some white people should get the sticks out of their butts, sit on the sofa and enjoy a good laugh straight from the 60s.

My rating: 6/10
S.

I’m an angel. See the wings? “Good Fortune” (2025)

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directed by Aziz Ansari
© 2025 Lionsgate. All Rights Reserved.

Aziz Ansari has just shared his debut feature film with us and it’s actually quite decent. I mean, I can tell who made this comedy because its humour is so much in Ansari’s style. We get to know Gabriel (Keanu Reeves), who’s a guardian angel responsible for saving people who are texting and driving (very important job, don’t laugh). One day, he saves Arj (Aziz Ansari), a poor guy whose life is a mess and he struggles with literally everything, from work to love life. Even though Gabriel shouldn’t interfere, he obviously does and that leads to Arj changing places with a rich guy and Arj’s ex employer named Jeff (Seth Rogen). It seemed like a great idea, but the consequences are rather complicated. When Gabriel’s supervisor finds out about his actions, the angel loses his wings and powers. Things might get back to normal only if Arj changes places with Jeff again. But to do that, Arj has to want to change, and as you might be guessing, he is loving his new wealthy life. So now, powerless Gabriel and broke Jeff are trying to survive and come up with an idea to fix everything. I definitely loved the idea and all the small details that make the story really funny. Perhaps I got a bit bored in the middle because of the screenplay, which could have been slightly polished, but other than that I think it’s a perfect film for a movie night with friends. I could tell you that this story teaches us a lesson that money can’t buy happiness, but in fact… it’s not true. I guess we all know what world we’re living in and Ansari uses this sad reality to entertain us. The three main actors were chosen wonderfully and I hope they will get a chance to meet in this team again. Also, I praise his debut and I hope that Ansari will keep on exploring his path as a film director. Because this path is quite promising.

My rating: 6/10
S.

Don’t ever pretend you know something you don’t. “Ella McCay” (2025)

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directed by James L. Brooks
© 2025 20th Century Studios. All Rights Reserved.

Perhaps you’ll be surprised by this recommendation, because a lot of people have rated the film low, but I actually enjoyed it. I hope my post will encourage you to watch it and create your own opinion. The film is labeled as a political comedy, but I believe it’s something much deeper. We get to know Ella (Emma Mackey), who’s a lieutenant governor, very much dedicated to her work. The governor resigns from his new presidential position leaving Ella to take over the responsibilities. Unfortunately, she’s not that respected within her party, so the professional life becomes a real struggle. Also, Ella’s private life isn’t such an easy adventure either, since she’s lost her mother, her father abandoned the family and also Ella’s husband isn’t a partner she can count on. This isn’t a comedy about some politicians being politicians and how untrustworthy they can be – I mean, we know that and there’s nothing to laugh at, I guess. This is actually a very interesting picture of a young woman, who has to deal with the world full of expectations towards her. She should be supportive, but also obedient and keeping a low profile. She should be ambitious, but knowing her place. She should be forgiving, even though the ones to forgive have hurt her without any hesitation. She should be brave and stand for her values, but also ready to lose at any time. This production is about being a woman in a very anti-woman’s world. I felt a strong connection with Ella, because even though her story is fictional, all the presented elements couldn’t be more true. And I bet every woman may see a part of herself there. The film is funny from time to time, I agree, but it’s also comforting and uplifting. Why? Because you remind yourself that you’re not the only one and if you think you’re failing, it’s actually you doing your best to survive. So I cannot say it’s a bad film if it’s made an impact on me, right? Also, Jamie Lee Curtis is perfect for playing the role of an aunt. The official aunt of Hollywood, ladies and gentlemen!

My rating: 7/10
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I see you. “A Friend of Dorothy” (2025)

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directed by Lee Knight
© 2025 Filthy Gorgeous Productions. All Rights Reserved.

If you’re looking for a new friend, just kick the football really hard and see where it lands. Then go there, knock on the door and let the friendship begin! That’s basically how the story goes here. A teenage boy named JJ (Alistair Nwachukwu) meets Dorothy (Miriam Margolyes), who’s an elderly widow living alone. She’s a typical grumpy grandma from the neighbourhood, but somehow those two have a good vibe between each other. Instead of shouting at the boy for kicking the ball into her property, Dorothy invites him over for a cup of tea. And that’s how an unexpected friendship begins. It’s an adorable short film about building connections despite differences in age, gender, race, or any other. In fact, thanks to Dorothy and JJ, we get reminded that such unusual relations may be surprisingly beneficial for both sides. Also, recently I’ve learnt a new expression – “family by choice” – which refers to all our closest friend, to whom we’re not actually related, but they are like family members to us. Because sometimes, our real families might not fulfil our needs for affection, trust or support. And then, it’s important to search for that somewhere else. In this case, someone found a loving grandma, and the other person found a supportive grandson. If you’re in need for some serotonin, this short film definitely provides it. Make friends, my dearest readers!

My rating: 7/10
S.

The shoe will fit her. “The Ugly Stepsister” (“Den stygge stesøsteren”, 2025)

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directed by Emilie Blichfeldt
© 2025 Scanbox Entertainment. All Rights Reserved.

I’ve read a comment saying that this film is a combination of “Cinderella” and “The Substance”… and I couldn’t agree more. That’s exactly what I had in mind while watching “The Ugly Stepsister”. And I must say – I loved it! The film crew took such a boringly common story and made a unique horror out of it. So, if you remember, Cinderella was the poor girl that lost her father and had to live with the evil stepmother and two annoying stepsisters. However, in this film, we get to experience the old story from the perspective of one of the stepsisters, Elvira (Lea Myren). When the prince is looking for his future wife among unmarried ladies, both Elvira and Agnes (Thea Sofie Loch Næss), Cinderella-like character, wish to catch his attention. The problem is that Agnes is the pretty one, so Elvira doesn’t have much chance. However, if only she “corrects” some elements of her body, perhaps the prince won’t even hesitate. That is why Elvira goes through a series of surgeries in order to stop being the ugly stepsister. The filmmakers ask a question: what if Cinderella was the bad character? Why do we always tell this story in the same way and never stop to think of other possibilities? That’s something I definitely appreciated here. Another thing is the costumes, make-up and production design that look fabulous and suit the vibe of this production very well. Also, even though it’s labelled as a comedy, it’s a horror as well, so if you’re a sensitive one – better get yourself a blanket to hide under it from time to time. Maybe it’s not a horror full of jumpscares, but it’s rather very realistic and disgusting. All the zoom-ins may stay in your nightmares for a long time. I believe this film speaks for itself, especially since the director was inspired by Brothers Grimm, David Cronenberg and… a Polish pornography maker. So in case you’re caught watching blue movies, you can always say it’s just one of the steps on your path to win an Oscar. You’re welcome.

My rating: 7/10
S.

You’re so money and you don’t even know it! “Swingers” (1996)

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directed by Doug Liman
© 1996 Miramax Films. All Rights Reserved.

Not sure how about you, but I need some break from difficult topics. That is why today I’m taking you to the 90s, where we will join very young Jon Favreau and Vince Vaughn on a male trip. Seatbelts fasten? So, let’s go! Mike (Jon Favreau) is a comedian, or he’s trying to be one, but not succeeding much. He’s also broken up with his girlfriend recently, so he needs a total restart. And here comes Trent (Vince Vaughn), Mike’s friend, who’s an aspiring actor and an absolute womanizer. Who can help a broken-hearted man better than a bestie that has sex with everyone whose name starts with any letter of alphabet? Literally, anyone, but Mike agrees to a trip to Las Vegas, which is a place to go when you want to get wasted, have fun and forget about the reality. But no attractions and amounts of alcohol can help when a man is still in love with the woman of his life. Is this comedy predictable? Of course. It’s like a low-budget grandma of “Hangover” film, but I get it – we all need such brain relaxation from time to time. Maybe the plot isn’t the most engaging, but I really enjoyed seeing Jon and Vince at such young age. You can actually see how awkward they were before and compare their acting to what they can do now. It’s adorable, I must say. Let me point out that thanks to this silly comedy, Vince got hired by Spielberg, so you never know what life may bring. And, also, I’m sure you’ve heard someone screaming “VEGAS, BABY!” – this exact sentence was popularised by “Swingers”. Who would have known that a film about two men having fun would have such impact on culture. Anyway, if you need to restart your brain but you can’t afford going to Las Vegas, this comedy will be a cheaper substitute.

My rating: 6/10
S.

I have absolutely no interest in myself whatsoever. “Blue Moon” (2025)

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directed by Richard Linklater
© 2025 Sony Pictures Classics. All Rights Reserved.

“You’re not old enough, let’s wait 12 years” – said the director of the film to Ethan Hawke. And they did. Some may think it’s ridiculous – they could have chosen any other older actor. But no, it was always supposed to be Ethan Hawke, and, to be honest, I’m grateful for this stubborness. The film focuses on the character of Lorenz Hart, a famous songwriter, whose work has been admired on Broadway. But it’s not another ordinary biopic with a predictable script, which is definitely a huge plus. We move to 1943, where Hart’s former work partner, Richard Rodgers (Andrew Scott), is celebrating the official premiere of his new musical “Oklahoma!”. The thing is Rodgers decided to cooperate with another writer, Oscar Hammerstein (Simon Delaney), so the night is quite bittersweet for Hart. He sits at the bar and begins a conversation (which is more of a monologue) with a bartender, during which we may learn more about his life, both personal and professional. In fact, the whole opening ceremony is just a background and the main action happens at the bar. At first, I was confused why it takes so long to begin the film, but then I realised that Hart’s monologuing is the main point. I must say, sometimes it was a bit tiring and I was zoning out, but the reason why I’m recommending this production to you is because of the unusual biopic form and Hawke’s performance. Even though my rating is quite average, I do believe Hawke deserved to be awarded for this role. It seems simple, but such are the most difficult to master. And he nailed it! Despite zoning out because of the script, I was absolutely amazed by the power of this character. Just to remind you – he’s just sitting at a bar and talking. That’s it. Yet, you become fascinated by him. Also, it’s a very moving way of presenting what loneliness may look like. That the drunk guy ordering another glass is in fact a lost soul unable to ask for help. I hope you’ll find a moment to see it and reflect on the story.

My rating: 6/10
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