David Duchovny, who produced, directed and wrote the screenplay for this film, also wrote the novel Bucky F*cking Dent (2016), which formed the basis of it.
It turns out that for Duchovna, cinema is not the only kind of creativity he is engaged in. In 2011, apparently imbued with one of the brightest roles in his film career - the writer of an alcoholic and a great lover of women Frank Moody from the series "California Prodigal" (2007-2014), the actor published his first book, and to date their number has reached six. Also Duchovny tries himself in music - he recorded three music albums, songs from which he composed lyrics and music.
The film is not without drawbacks – the story he tells is far from new, the theme of reconciliation with relatives who unexpectedly found themselves on the verge of death is very popular among filmmakers and Duchovny does not open anything new here. The comedy component is quite specific and jokes do not always cause at least a smile, however, I admit that in some cases it could be the fault of our simply disgusting translation. The narrative is confusing, exciting story from beginning to end to tell failed.
But there are advantages here - well-written images of the main characters, the interaction of which is quite interesting to watch, several very successful jokes, drama at a decent level. And personally, I was very pleased with two cameos from Evan Handler and Pamela Adlon, who played together with Duchovna in “California Prodigal” a married couple of concerned his friends. Adlon has a particularly memorable image of a literary agent here.
But most importantly, it feels like Duchovny has put his soul into this film and the themes he raises are familiar to him. Many of us, once experiencing pain, especially from loved ones or their loss, close off from the world, not wanting to experience it again, but thereby they miss the opportunity to heal from the mental wounds that life presents to them. And sometimes a simple heart-to-heart conversation with a person who seems to have offended you can bring peace and tranquility to both, and continuing to grieve your offense alone, later you can only bitterly regret the missed opportunities.
At first I thought to rate the film at 6, but I liked the finale and the aftertaste was pleasant, so in the end
7 out of 10