Where on Earth did this film come from? Way out of left-field that's where. Who would have thought a comedy-drama starring Ray Romano would be so emotional. So really, this isn't a comedy. At least not in the way you would expect a Ray Romano comedy to be. This is a drama about Michael (Mark Duplass) and Andy (Ray Romano), neighbours and friends, who go on a trip to get medication when Michael is diagnosed with terminal cancer and wants to end his life on his own terms.
That is such a heavy premise for a film in this day and age because cancer is a disease that has effectively pretty much everyone, and many of us it has affected multiple times. Personally, I've lost two grandparents to it, and even my mother had it (currently in remission). We all know the realities of terminal cancer, so the film doesn't waste much time in trying to set the scene.
While mostly a by-the-numbers film that follows many cliches, it's the strength of Michael and Andy's relationship that holds the film together. There are no over-the-top bucket list missions; this a couple of guys that have no one else in their lives but each other, and can't afford to go galavanting around the world even if they wanted to. Paddleton is so firmly grounded, that you can't help but empathise with the characters.
You experience Michael's denial, anger, depression, and acceptance, as well as Andy's opposing standpoint at every turn, wanting to keep his friend around longer. Everything feels genuine, and that is where the comedy comes from. Not in your face outlandish comedy, but dry, sarcastic humour that would be found between two best friends put in a sombre situation.
The pacing is topically appropriate. Slow at times, but it really gives the audience a chance to think and contemplate alongside the protagonists. Euthanasia is a controversial topic, so the film is full of dramatic moments despite it not having any action. What will happen at the end of the film is telegraphed very early on, and yet you still aren't ready for it by the time you get there. Paddleton introduces and builds characters that you care about. Real people.
On a side note; props are due to the writers. Ray Romano is clearly portraying an autistic person. Mark Duplass' character has an explanation for his living conditions which he mentions late in the film, by Romano's character is never explained. He portrays a man that lives in a highly habitualized manner, following the same repetitive schedule every day. Even his speech patterns and discomfort towards small-talk and anything sexual are characteristic of those with autism. But it isn't ever explicitly mentioned. It isn't pushing the "autistic people are mathematical superheroes" trope but is simply representing the autistic community in a realistic way. The plot in no way has anything to do with his autism, and yet there it is.
It almost got me in the end, it almost had me shedding a few tears, but what it did do, was have me contemplate my own position in life. To think about those closest to me, and the things I have been putting off in life. The film ends and still, I sit there in quiet reflection. A tough watch, but definitely recommended.