Though I haven't written on this series in a while, the Hidden Gem Spotlight is something I want to continue to write. Though it never gets the amount of views that some of the more prominent films I review, I still think it is important to highlight the lesser known films. The whole point of this blog is to increase cinematic literacy among my friends and family. Only reviewing large blockbusters for more reads would be a large sell out on my part as a writer. Speaking of a sequitur, I decided to see the independent release, The Peanut Butter Falcon last week. Let's get to reviewing, shall we?
The Peanut Butter Falcon follows the story of Zak, a man with Down syndrome who runs away from his state-placed group home. He meets up with Tyler (Shia Labeouf), a man who is running from the law, and himself. Zak is played by Zack Gottsagen, an actor with Down syndrome. The films follows their adventures as they try and get Zak to fulfill his dream, to become a wrestler. All the while, he is being chased by his case manager Eleanor. (Dakota Johnson) I found the casting of LaBeouf delightful, as he truly believe he is one of the most talented and underrated actors in the business when sober. I also think Dakota Johnson had an incredibly bad rap with her career since the dismal 50 Shades of Grey franchise. However, she really is a talented actress whose work in independent releases I enjoy increasingly. Casting large franchise actors in independent roles is one of my fetishes, as it really gives them a chance to shine. Enough cannot be said about the performance of Gottsagen as the protagonist. He truly proves the fact that people with special needs can do whatever they want with his endearing performance.
The Peanut Butter Falcon remains poignant, while maintaining a wonderful sense of humor. It is more of a rural tall tale, like a modern day Huckleberry Finn on film. I have always had a soft spot for the southern fantasy based on my own roots, and this felt so rich and accurate. The film felt very fresh with it's forward thinking and unique story. I found in incomparable to any other movie I have ever seen, which is incredibly rare with my cinematic knowledge. My biggest criticism of the film was a line painting drug addicts to be bad people. For such a progressive film, it was a bit noticeable. That being said, I can be sensitive towards this issue.
In a summer full of reboots and blockbusters, The Peanut Butter Falcon offered a fresh, original, and charming story. This might be one of my favorite films of the summer, and could end up being one of my favorites of the year.
Grade: (9/10)
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