Fixed

Fixed is a comedy film that takes viewers on a rollercoaster of laughter, as it delves into the hilarity and conundrums of family life, friendship, and fertility. Directed by Alonso Mayo, the movie stars Andy Comeau in the lead role, as well as Courtney Henggeler, Nelson Franklin, Leonard Roberts, Alan Ruck, Erinn Hayes, Keesha Sharp, Mindy Sterling, and Sonya Eddy in supporting roles.

The film kicks off with the life of the affable yet reserved Allan, played brilliantly by Andy Comeau. Allan is, for all intents and purposes, an everyday guy: husband, father to two boisterous kids and holder of a regular office job. He leads a civilized, albeit occasionally chaotic, suburban existence which he enjoys, compartmentalizing his responsibilities as best he can.

However, as can often be the case with seemingly mundane existence, Allan’s life is about to be turned upside-down. His comfortable and predictable routine is disrupted by a rather unanticipated revelation from his wife, Jeanie, portrayed by Courtney Henggeler. Jeanie alarmingly suggests that Allan get a “vasectomy” to eliminate the possibility of having more children, setting off a series of rib-tickling events that cause Allan to question his identity, masculinity, and future.

Next in line among our unique characters is Nelson Franklin who plays Brian, Allan’s best friend. Brian is a free-spirited, modern-day Casanova who revels in his single and carefree existence. His continuous support to Allan, peppered with his unique and somewhat questionable insights into relationships and feminity, add an extra layer of humour to the film, allowing for an intriguing contrast against Allan's steadfast family-man personality.

Each supporting character adds a distinct flavour to Fixed, creating a brilliant ensemble of suburban portraits. Alan Ruck and Erinn Hayes enact the roles of older voices of reason, while Keesha Sharp, Mindy Sterling, and Sonya Eddy dive into women’s perspectives on relationships and fertility with gusto. With a parade of life's hilarious yet insightful instances woven together masterfully, each act is beautifully interpreted and deeply relatable for the viewers.

Henggeler’s Jeanie is the perfect embodiment of the modern wife and mother. She balances the struggles of parenity, a stressful job and a marital relationship, all with a sense of humor and love. Her character is a fascinating exploration of womanhood and the strength that often goes unnoticed behind everyday activities. Leonard Roberts, on the other hand, plays the grounded yin to Franklin’s wild yang, oozing calm and sincerity in his persona.

A particularly highlighting aspect of the film is the dynamic and multifaceted male friendship and brotherhood that transcends the stereotypical presentations often seen in mainstream films. Allan and Brian's ongoing camaraderie showcases a unique blend of humour, support, and vulnerability, creating a fresh and empathetic portrait of male bonding.

“Fixed” is notable not only for its memorable performances and sharp writing but also for the essential themes it navigates. It mirthfully addresses the often taboo subjects of fertility and vasectomies, which are usually overlooked in popular culture. By diving into these themes in a lighthearted comedy, it manages to normalize discussions about men's sexual health, a lesser-explored topic, that nevertheless affects many people's lives.

There's also a great deal of emphasis on societal norms, the pressure of considered changes, and the struggle of acceptance. As Allan grapples with his looming vasectomy and desperately tries to re-evaluate his views on masculinity and parenthood, the film engages in deep, yet accessible explorations of existential relationships.

“Fixed” is a rollercoaster journey of a man's life with comical twists and turns that unravels questions and explores the answers in a poignant and hilarious way. With its unique comedic style, brisk dialogue, and stellar performances from an ensemble cast, this film serves as a must-watch for comedy lovers, and arguably, for everyone else as well. Enjoy the laugh riot as the film cleverly uncovers the myriad, often unspoken, truths about modern life, making it a comedy that is as sincere and heartwarming, as it is uproariously funny.