Watch The Do-Deca-Pentathlon

The Do-Deca-Pentathlon is a 2012 comedy-drama film directed by Jay and Mark Duplass, starring Mark Kelly, Steve Zissis, and Jennifer Lafleur. The movie follows two estranged brothers, Mark (Kelly) and Jeremy (Zissis), who haven't spoken to each other in years since a physical altercation during their childhood. After a chance encounter at a birthday party, they reignite their competitive spirit sparked by the Do-Deca-Pentathlon - a 25-event brotherly Olympic Games they created as kids.

Despite their age, both Mark and Jeremy see the reunion as an opportunity to finally crown a winner in their tournament and settle their childhood rivalry once and for all. Though they both have different motivations (Mark wants to feel like a winner, while Jeremy seeks approval from his wife and father), they embark on this quest and put everything on the line for the ultimate showdown.

As they progress through the events, everything from ping pong to arm wrestling to a 5k run, the brothers find themselves not only reigniting their competitive spirit but also reconciling their tumultuous past. Mark's wife Stephanie (Lafleur) and Jeremy's spouse Kelly (Jennifer Lafleur) serve as the voices of reason, trying to help their husbands see the bigger picture and prioritize their familial relationships.

The Do-Deca-Pentathlon provides a fresh take on sibling rivalry and family dynamics, painting a relatable picture of how petty and trivial things like a childhood fight can hold a grudge for so long. The close-ups, cinematography, and the supporting cast add more depth to the story, creating an immersive experience.

The film's naturalistic approach with the dialogue and a lack of a soundtrack is a refreshing departure from traditional comedies. The humor is mostly situational, with little use of slapstick or one-liners, making it a more subtle, nuanced comedy.

The story's pace keeps viewers engaged and guessing, constantly wondering what event comes next, who's going to win, and how the brothers will react. It's a testament to how the movie builds the characters' history and motivations while keeping the audience entertained. The climax, a hair-raising 1-on-1 basketball game, is so well-executed that it built-up the tension and excitement to a fever pitch without relying on slow-motion or any other audience manipulative techniques.

Ultimately, the Do-Deca-Pentathlon is a heartwarming story of two grown men, with families and regrets, trying to reclaim their childhood memories and settle their feud. The film's message, that family is what matters above all else, is delivered with sincerity that brings the viewer close to emotionally investing in both Mark and Jeremy. It's a must-watch for anyone who has experienced friction or rivalry with a sibling and wants to see the issue addressed in a touching and honest way.

In conclusion, this movie is an absolute gem with fantastic writing, acting, and direction. The Do-Deca-Pentathlon offers a great blend of comedy, drama, and emotion that feels unique and fresh. A film that does not disappoint and one that delivers a subtle, affecting story that will make you laugh and tug on your heartstrings.

The Do-Deca-Pentathlon 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 5.9 and a MetaScore of 60.