Review of Ode to Joy (2019) by Tvjerry — 18 Jun 2020
Martin Freeman brings an anxious intensity to any role he plays (most recently in the darkly funny Breeders on FX). This character gives him a chance to amp up those traits for laughs. He plays a man with cataplexy, a disorder that makes him lose muscle control whenever he's happy.
To avoid that outcome, he moves thru his day focusing on the miserable side of life, until he meets a wonderful woman (Morena Baccarin). In addition to Freeman's affable charms, Jake Lacy (as his brother) and Melissa Rauch (as his "safe" girlfriend) add additional funny moments.
Director Jason Winer is most associated with his work on Modern Family and he captures that same buoyantly upbeat/offbeat vibe here. While the romance plays out predictably, getting there provides lots of sweet appeal and delightful comedy.
This review of Ode to Joy (2019) was written by Tvjerry on 18 Jun 2020.
Ode to Joy has generally received mixed reviews.
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