Back in college, Ben and Andrew were the rebels. However, it has been nearly ten years and though time doesn't change everything, it has divided the path for the two long-time friends. Ben has settled down, finding a job, house and wife while Andrew has traveled the globe claiming to be a vagabond artist. But on one intoxicating night, shortly after an overdue reunion, both men will make a vow that will challenge their pride, determination and self-respect; all while creating endless laughs for those watching on.
Tackling every aspect of the male ego, writer/director Lynn Shelton dares to go there...and beyond. In the process, the famed indie director captures the ironic and humiliating, prompting one to wonder just how a female can hit the male psyche so perfectly. Her ability to create comedic awkwardness from nearly every situation is not something to respect, but one to envy.
Additionally, I have to credit both Mark Duplass and Joshua Leonard for their combined ability to portray best buds, long since separated but working to rediscover themselves and their companionship.
Regretfully, the same can't be said for Alycia Delmore who is making her feature-film debut with Humpday. While I can credit much of the demise on the writing, for her character was nowhere near reasonable or flattering, some of the blame must be placed on the shoulders of Delmore. Failing to materialize and bring Anna to the forefront, Alycia stays in the distance for much of the film, serving as nothing more than a distracting background figure.
Combine that aspect with the film's inability to end in time and what started out as a hilarious tale of the ultimate male-bonding becomes a tiresome soar subject. The film is great, brilliant in fact. However, the awkward situation that presents itself towards the end runs over by almost ten minutes, making your last impression of the film one of unfortunate despair. Still the film is worth a watch, just expect laughs and awkward tension, nothing more and thankfully, nothing less.
Humpday has been purchased by Magnolia Pictures and will be receiving a stephen.
