The Upside
Starring: Kevin Hart, Bryan Cranston
and Nicole Kidman
Rated PG-13
Bryan Cranston plays a quadriplegic who
hires a man wih a criminal record to be his physical assistant.
Based on a true story and a remake of
the 2011 French film “The Intouchables,” “The Upside” is a
touching, albeit formulaic buddy picture, reminiscent of “The
Bucket List.”
But being formulaic isn't always a bad thing if the film can offer a few surprises. And “The Upside” does have a few surprises, not least of which is an unexpectedly touching performance by Kevin Hart, who gives his character depth and vulnerability.
Bryan Cranston has a very hard job in this role as he is left with a few facial gestures and his voice to convey a broad spectrum of emotions. The combination of the two characters makes this film work.
But being formulaic isn't always a bad thing if the film can offer a few surprises. And “The Upside” does have a few surprises, not least of which is an unexpectedly touching performance by Kevin Hart, who gives his character depth and vulnerability.
Bryan Cranston has a very hard job in this role as he is left with a few facial gestures and his voice to convey a broad spectrum of emotions. The combination of the two characters makes this film work.
Formula or not, “The Upside” is a
feel good buddy picture and is worth the ticket price.
It gets a solid B and is rated PG-13.
P.S. If you haven't seen the original film, please do as it is a very rewarding experience. I have included the original trailer below.
