Ideal Home

Ideal Home is a heartwarming 2018 comedy-drama starring Steve Coogan, Paul Rudd, and Jesse Luken. Directed and written by Andrew Fleming, it centers around the lives of a flamboyantly gay Santa Fe couple whose extravagant lifestyle is turned upside down when they're thrust unexpectedly into the role of parents. This satire infuses light-hearted humor and emotional depth, offering a refreshing portrait of non-traditional family values amidst the comedic chaos.

In the center of the narrative are celebrity chef Erasmus Brumble (Steve Coogan) and his long-term life partner, Paul (Paul Rudd). Erasmus is a very British bon vivant and TV personality, known for his lively cooking show, while Paul plays the role of his less flamboyant American producer and long-term partner. Both live in Santa Fe, New Mexico, often engaged in bickering, bantering, and indulging in a rather hedonistic lifestyle defined by extravagant parties, eccentric guests, and a fair bit of tequila. Their relationship, a pastiche of modern love, is seasoned with a combination of fiery confrontation, mutual affection, endearing banter, and underlying tension. Coogan and Rudd’s on-screen chemistry is impeccable which adds a charm to their often complicated but loving relationship.

Their comfortable, luxurious, and somewhat chaotic life takes a sharp turn when a boy shows up at their doorstep during one of their parties, claiming to be Erasmus's grandson. The ten-year-old boy, Bill, portrayed wonderfully by Jack Gore, is the son of Erasmus's estranged son Beau (Jake McDorman). Bill’s narrative introduces a hefty dose of reality into the couple's life when Beau lands in jail, and Bill has no one to turn to, other than his flamboyant grandfather and his less enthusiastic partner.

The crux of Ideal Home lies in the funny and emotional journey that unravels upon the unexpected arrival of the ten-year-old. Suddenly confronted with parenthood, the couple initially fumbles through the basics of caring for a child, turning out hilarious and at times cringe-worthy moments. The hilarity lies in the subtlety of their cluelessness as they attempt to navigate the treacherous waters of parenting, a role that is miles apart from their usual lifestyle and roles.

Despite their differences and initial reluctance, the boys' arrival leads Erasmus and Paul to question and re-evaluate their lifestyle, relationships, and individual roles. As the trio navigate the new living situation, the couple inevitably finds themselves forming an emotional bond with the young boy. The narrative embraces the themes of parenting, unconventional family dynamics, and the prospect of unexpected change.

Although predominantly a comedy, Ideal Home is not devoid of emotional depth, which comes into play as the characters delve into their past and contemplate their future. Every character in the film goes through their journey of self-discovery, increasing the overall emotional quotient of the movie. Several scenes in the film are tender, vulnerable, and strikingly real, providing glimpses into their inner turmoil and struggles.

Ideal Home is also a film that celebrates diversity and breaks stereotypes. Fleming has smartly avoided being overly preachy and has instead focused on engaging the audience with humor and emotions. It subtly showcases the power of family, the importance of acceptance, and the struggle of adjusting to unfamiliar situations.

Despite dealing with serious themes, the film is filled with humor, much of it resulting from the day-to-day situations that the characters find themselves in. The dialogue is quick, smart, and loaded with sarcasm, further enhancing the comedic aspect of the movie. Steve Coogan and Paul Rudd deliver powerful performances, with their comedic timing adding an additional charm to their complex characters.

The film is well-executed, brilliantly blending moments of absurdist humor and touching warmth. It is a film that explores the unexpected challenges and joys of parenthood, the complexity of relationships, and the beauty of non-traditional families, all while providing a platform for laughter and thought. Ideal Home paints a vibrant, funny, and heartfelt portrait of a modern family, making it a must-watch for those seeking a good laugh and a healthy dose of sentiment.