Active Adults

Active Adults is a gripping drama-comedy film that unfolds a charming narrative about self-realization and complicated modern relationships. Directed by Aaron Fisher-Cohen and released in 2017, the film serves an enchanting blend of humor and tenderness, anchored by heartwarming performances by Jonathan Rosen, Lola Kirke, and Dominic Chianese. With a stunning display of emotional depth, Active Adults explores the trials of being adults while still trying to figure out one's life, dreams, and relationships in a cosmopolitan landscape.

The movie revolves around the principal characters Malcolm (Jonathan Rosen) and Lily (Lola Kirke), who are in their mid-thirties and struggling with the purpose and direction of their lives. As a backdrop to this existential crisis, they are both trying to manifest their personal dreams: Malcolm aspires to be a writer, while Lily dreams of a career in the arts. While both of them are in search of their identities, they still desire the stability and coherence that a shared life could bring.

Their challenge is captured aptly in the movie's title—appearing as "Active Adults,” they aren't exactly as active as expected and still find oneself confused about life’s trajectory. This self-discovery is the underlying theme of the movie and is expressed through its relatable characters whose torments are masked by their day-to-day struggles.

Malcolm and Lily, just like any young adults, dream of owning a home only to discover that in today's era, it's nearly impossible for struggling artists like them to afford one in New York City. Their quest leads them to start considering a retirement community in New Jersey, something not too commonly picked as the first choice by people their age. Still, this twist at the beginning acts as a catalyst for the series of events that follow.

In the retirement community, they meet Dominic Chianese’s character who delivers an amazing performance as an elderly gent still keen on enjoying the zest of life. This encounter helps the young couple reconnect with their dreams, while showcasing the possibility of aging without losing enthusiasm for life.

All of these elements are incorporated into the movie in a scenic progression. The cinematography is incredible, successfully capturing the feel of modern city life's hustle-bustle simultaneously contrasted with the comparatively serene ambience of the retirement community. The movie’s lighthearted take on deeply personal struggles of self-doubt and existential dread provides an expressive undertone to this seemingly humorous narrative.

The performances of the cast are commendable, with Jonathan Rosen and Lola Kirke meticulously portraying the range of emotions their characters undergo. They do a spectacular job of embodying the confusion and frustration of a young couple trying to balance their ambitions against their shared life plan. They are relatable, endearing, and remarkably real, delivering an impressive sensitivity to their roles. Additionally, veteran actor Dominic Chianese also lends a notable portrayal in the film that uplifts the narrative beautifully.

Director Aaron Fisher-Cohen’s style of storytelling is engaging and thought-provoking. He uses humor to soften an otherwise intense exploration of life's complexities. He refrains from serving a conclusion on a platter but leaves threads for viewers to ponder over long after the film concludes. This approach paints an incredibly honest portrayal of life, in all its bountiful uncertainties, making Active Adults a watch that stirs up a sincere conversation about the dilemmas of modern life.

Spiced with fine performances, Levine's warmhearted script, and Fisher-Cohen’s novel storytelling, Active Adults prompts an engaging reflection on the uncertainties that aging brings to all aspects of life, no matter the age. More importantly, it carefully juxtaposes this against a cultural norm that expects individuals to have it all figured out by the time they step into adulthood. This not only makes the movie a standout cinematic experience but also a charmingly thought-provoking dramatic-comedy that pleases and moves its viewers.