Review of Duplex (2003) by Andrea M — 06 Jan 2012

Duplex (Our House) is a clever, humorous black comedy which does include a 'crash-vomit-disgust' factor, yet makes usage of it in a sharp way which adds to the picture's overall appeal. The film tells the story of a young couple, Alex (Stiller) and Nancy (Barrymore), who move to a dream home, finding however that in this duplex, the lady above, Mrs Connelly (Essel), is not just a kind elderly woman yet an extremely bothersome neighbour who drives them to the limits of sanity.

First things first, the film is well-directed and has some good performances from the three leading roles. All actors, in turn, are able to develop their characters interestingly and each do their roles with panache and confidence. Duplex, in terms of writing and synopsis, is actually cleverly written. With regards to originality, I am not sure whether or not it is innovative or derivative, yet that is besides the point. Several of the best comedy films achieve such status by repeating or at least being inspired by several themes present in past stories. It is how a film is presented, the angle through which it is told, which IMO makes a comedy original or not. Duplex is definitely fresh and clever, and an above-average film. Whilst at first sight, its usage of visual humour (the vomiting, the roof collapsing, etc) can seem a little clichà (C)d and unsubtle, within the realms of its genre, one realises that it is actually well-written and it adds to the effect of the story. And even with its 'crash-vomit' factor, it proves remarkably sharp boasting more than just your typical physical humour. The scenes showing the couple going crazy, as well as their homicidal instincts, can be extremely dark, yet somehow the film is able to be humorous throughout.

Overall, a funny black comedy which I would definitely recommend. Whilst I don't think it's the most extraordinary or ground-breaking film of all time, it will almost certainly deliver a long set of laughs. The good direction, performances and writing additionally lift what could be a very banal comedy to an above-average, artistically appealing, status.