Appiness

Appiness is an undergem indie comedy from 2018 that promptly drives a sharp conversation about the modern tech world and our obsession with apps more engaging than human interaction. Twisting in merriment and social commentary, the film prudently probes our technology-driven lives, making for a piece that's as reflective as it is entertaining.

Much of the electrifying appeal of Appiness seems from the dynamic synergy shared by the lead actors - Eli Batalion and Varun Saranga. Batalion, who also happens to be the film’s writer and producer, plays Eric Newman, a shy and socially awkward software developer. Eric loses his job in Montreal and, unable to find new employment, has to move back in with his parents. Saranga, on the other hand, plays Raj Patel, a business school graduate who, like Erik, is struggling to find a role that matches his qualifications. He is also living off his parents. These two protagonists, both reminiscent of real-world people with easily relatable plights, impulsively decide to partner up and create a startup enterprise, pledging to take the app world by storm and attain the much-desired state of 'happiness' through 'appiness.'

Filmmakers draw a captivating contrast between Eric's technological expertise and Raj's business acumen. While Eric knows the ins and outs of software development, Raj is brimming with marketing ideas. Amber Goldfarb features as Jenn, Eric's love interest, adding a layer of human connection and emotion to this tech-heavy plot.

What makes Appiness stand out is its shrewd and slightly satirical exploration of the pervasive influence of technology and gadgets in our lives. The storyline deftly delves into the obsession with apps that have marked the contemporary digital era. With a keen focus on the wild startup culture and the tech industry's frenzied pace, Appiness packs in enough humor to ensure that the social commentary never turns preachy.

Rather than glamourizing the path to startup triumph, Appiness presents a ground-level view of this journey. The film gently nudges us to consider what success truly means and whether accumulating wealth and technological advancement are as fulfilling as they appear. The pros and cons of technology, the struggle for financial stability, and the search for personal happiness against the backdrop of societal expectations all entwine in this ingenious narrative.

Appiness masterfully encapsulates the trepidations and hardships looming in the entrepreneurial world coupled with the intoxicating allure of success that keeps pushing our two protagonists forward. It humorously pokes fun at the fickle formula for success in the modern tech industry while remaining sympathetic to the struggles and dreams of its characters. The film cleverly portrays a harsh reality, albeit coated with a veil of comedy, showing how unpredictable the tech world can be and how quickly fortunes can rise or fall.

Beyond the technological theme, Appiness also delves into the personal lives of its characters. The movie does a great job of portraying side plots revolving around the characters' families and relationships, which ground the movie in reality and intensify the emotional investment by providing a more profound understanding of the characters.

Batalion, Saranga, and Goldfarb all deliver solid performances that make their characters relatable and engaging, ensuring the viewer's emotional investment. A special mention must be made of the excellent writing. Aside from the tech commentary, some societal norms and stereotypes are challenged, revealing some unexpected depth in this comedy.

On an aesthetic level, Appiness is quite rewarding too. The cinematography is tasteful and inviting, capturing the essence and environment of a startup perfectly. The direction by Eli Batalion is well-executed, and the narrative is smoothly paced, making this delightful movie a pleasant watch.

In sum, Appiness is a highly entertaining film with more substance than the average comedy. It's not just a movie about two folks attempting to create the next big app but a shrewd, funny commentary on our modern world that is becoming increasingly dependent on technology. This movie discusses the whimsical portrayal of our search for happiness – or rather 'appiness' – in this technological era in a layered yet light-hearted narrative, making it a comedy worth watching.