Watch Somebody Up There Likes Me
- NR
- 2012
- 1 hr 16 min
-
5.7 (1,665)
Somebody Up There Likes Me is a quirky indie comedy film from 2012 that follows the life of Max Youngman (Keith Poulson), a socially oblivious waiter who refuses to mature or take responsibility. The movie spans 35 years of Max's life, chronicling his love affairs, marriage, divorce, and friendship with his co-worker, Sal (Nick Offerman).
The story begins with Max attending his first wedding, where he meets his future wife, Lyla (Jess Weixler). They start dating and soon get married. However, their marriage is far from perfect, and they drift apart over the years. Despite their differences, they have a daughter, the only thing they both truly care about.
As the years go by, Max experiences a series of bizarre events that seem to define his life. He loses his job, gets arrested, and even wins the lottery, but he never seems to change. Throughout it all, Sal is there to offer him guidance and support, even as Max remains oblivious to the world around him.
One of the most striking things about Somebody Up There Likes Me is its unique approach to storytelling. The film is divided into five chapters, each spanning five years, with no narration or explanation. The audience is left to piece together the story themselves, adding to the film's offbeat and sometimes surrealistic tone.
The film's humor is also a standout feature. The jokes are often tongue-in-cheek, and the characters frequently break the fourth wall, addressing the audience directly. Despite dealing with some heavy themes, such as divorce and mortality, the film manages to keep a lighthearted and humorous tone throughout.
One of the film's most impressive aspects is the talented cast. Keith Poulson's performance as Max is a standout, balancing humor and pathos with ease. Nick Offerman, best known for his role in Parks and Recreation, shines in a more nuanced role as the supportive and sarcastic Sal. Jess Weixler also impresses as Lyla, infusing her character with emotion and depth despite the limited screen time.
The film's visuals are also notable. Shot in a vintage, washed-out style, the film has a timeless quality, transporting the audience to different eras without feeling dated. The cinematography is also impressive, with several striking shots that linger in the mind long after the film ends.
However, despite its many strengths, Somebody Up There Likes Me may not be for everyone. The film's non-linear storytelling and offbeat humor may turn off some viewers, who may find it too slow or too weird for their tastes. Additionally, the lack of character development may frustrate some, as Max remains a relatively static character throughout the film.
Overall, Somebody Up There Likes Me is a quirky, offbeat indie film that will appeal to fans of unconventional storytelling and dry humor. Its talented cast, unique visuals, and blend of comedy and pathos make it a memorable addition to the genre.
Somebody Up There Likes Me is a 2012 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 16 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.7 and a MetaScore of 58.