Paddleton

Ray Romano, Mark Duplass

"A comedy Of dramatic Proportions"

NETFLIX

This buddy drama is one of the saddest movies I've seen.  Andy (Ray Romano) lives on the apartment on top of Michael's (Mark Duplass) flat. An unlikely friendship develops between them. 

They are both loner types lacking in social graces but their bond is solid. They even invented their own game which they named "paddleton", a variety of squash, the racket and ball game. They also always watch an old kung fu movie called "Death Punch", together. 

Michael finds out he has liver cancer and decides to take his own life before the disease turns 'messy'. So they go on a short road trip to another town where the (euthanasia) medicines Michael needs are available. Apparently, not all pharmacies sell these kind of medicines, for moral reasons.

Andy and Mark's friendship is purely platonic and I have to emphasize they are definitely not gay. I never got that vibe even though I have read reviews that imply they were. Their bond is endearing because it seems they only have each other as there are no mentions of family or other friends.

The last 20 minutes was intense and quite emotional. It is the scene where Michael decides to end his life. Much to the chagrin of Andy yet he doesn't stop his best friend, either. Mark Duplass did a great job in showing the effects these medicines have on one's body. There was no blood or anything gory involved. In fact, it was quite peaceful to see but it was also tragic and very sad. 

On the other hand, it was refreshing to see Andy move on with his life without Michael, even making small talk (his pet peeve) with his new neighbors (a mother and son) moving into Michael's former apartment.

I don't believe in euthanasia. This film doesn't really justify it. It was portrayed as an option offered to cancer patients so they can get a good quality of life. I may not like it but I do understand and respect their decisions.

"Paddleton" does not aim to be an existential movie and was ranked 186th in the 250 best Netflix movies. It is a simple narrative about an affinity between two people who may not have anything in common but are drawn to each other and have a lasting brotherly relationship. It is powered by great and credible acting from Mark Duplass and Ray Romano. Romano is  quite a revelation because even though he is  a comedian, he can equally shine in dramatic roles. Just be ready with some tissues, when you see this movie.