Adult Beginners

Adult Beginners is a heartfelt comedy-drama that tells the story of a young entrepreneur named Jake (played by Nick Kroll) who suddenly loses everything after a disastrous launch of his tech startup. With nowhere else to turn, he retreats to the comfort of his childhood home in the suburbs of New York City, where his older sister Justine (Rose Byrne) and her husband Danny (Bobby Cannavale) have taken up residence.

Jake is convinced that he can get his life back on track, but he quickly learns that things aren't as simple as he thought they would be. He finds himself thrust into the chaotic world of his sister's family, which includes a needy toddler, a demanding boss, and a strained marriage. While he initially struggles to cope with these challenges, he begins to find a new sense of purpose as he starts to bond with his nephew, Teddy.

As time goes on, Jake begins to take on more responsibilities in the household, including babysitting Teddy and helping out around the house. He also starts to reconnect with his sister and brother-in-law, with whom he had grown distant as he pursued his career. Justine and Danny, meanwhile, begin to rekindle their own relationship in the wake of Jake's arrival, which leads to some unexpected twists and turns.

Despite the occasional bumps in the road, the family ultimately comes together around the common goal of helping Jake get back on his feet. Along the way, they discover new strengths and vulnerabilities within themselves, and learn to appreciate the little moments that make life worth living.

One of the film's strong points is its smart, funny script, which is both witty and poignant. The dialogue is sharp, but also heartfelt, and the characters feel real and relatable. Nick Kroll does an excellent job of portraying Jake as a sympathetic yet flawed protagonist who is struggling to find his place in the world. Rose Byrne and Bobby Cannavale are equally impressive as Justine and Danny, both of whom are struggling with their own issues while trying to support their loved ones.

Another standout aspect of the film is its visual style, which is understated but effective. The cinematography is simple and unobtrusive, but the camera captures the small details and nuances of the family's interactions in a way that makes the viewer feel like they are right there in the room with them. The production design is also noteworthy, with the family's cluttered, lived-in house serving as a fitting backdrop for the film's themes of intimacy and connection.

While Adult Beginners may not be a groundbreaking film, it succeeds on the strength of its performances, its script, and its overall tone. It's a film that manages to be both funny and touching, without resorting to cheap sentimentality or sappiness. It's a film that reminds us of the power of family, and the importance of slowing down and appreciating the simple things in life.