Standing Up for Sunny

Standing Up for Sunny is a heartwarming comedy-drama film that premiered in 2019. The movie is directed by Steve Vidler and stars Radha Mitchell, RJ Mitte, and Sam Reid.

The story revolves around Travis (RJ Mitte), a young man with cerebral palsy who lives with his alcoholic brother and dreams of becoming a successful stand-up comedian. Despite his physical disability, Travis is a witty and charming young man, and his sense of humor is a source of joy and comfort for those around him.

One day, Travis meets Sunny (Isabel Lucas), a beautiful and optimistic woman who has just moved to town. Travis is immediately smitten with Sunny, and the two quickly become friends. However, things take a turn for the worse when Travis is badly beaten up by a group of bullies who mock his disability. Determined to stand up for himself and for Sunny, Travis decides to pursue his dream of becoming a stand-up comedian and enters a local comedy competition.

As Travis prepares for the competition, he meets a range of eccentric characters, including his coach, an ex-convict named Dave (Sam Reid), who becomes his mentor and helps him refine his comedic timing and delivery. Along the way, Travis discovers that comedy is not just about making people laugh but also about finding the courage to speak up for oneself and others.

Meanwhile, Sunny faces her own challenges, including a job she hates, an overbearing mother, and her own romantic entanglements. As Travis and Sunny navigate the ups and downs of their respective journeys, they find themselves drawn to one another, and their friendship turns into something more.

The film is a touching tribute to the power of laughter, friendship, and perseverance. RJ Mitte delivers a standout performance as Travis, bringing nuance and authenticity to the role of a young man with cerebral palsy. Radha Mitchell is also superb as Travis's love interest and mentor, bringing warmth and depth to a character who could have easily been a one-dimensional love interest.

Sam Reid, as Travis's coach and confidante, is a delight to watch, bringing both humor and heart to the role of a rough-around-the-edges ex-convict who has found redemption through his friendship with Travis.

The film's themes of disability, bullying, and social isolation are handled with sensitivity and nuance, and the script balances the emotional weight of these issues with humor and levity. The film also features a diverse and inclusive cast, which adds to its overall warmth and authenticity.

Overall, Standing Up for Sunny is a feel-good movie that will leave audiences laughing, crying, and cheering for its lovable and inspiring characters. The film is a reminder that no matter what obstacles we may face, we can always find the strength to stand up for ourselves and others, and that laughter truly is the best medicine.