Chez Upshaw

Chez Upshaw is an American comedy-drama film released in 2013, featuring revered actors such as Kevin Pollak, Illeana Douglas, Molly Sims, and Greg Grunberg. The movie takes comedic storytelling to another level, offering a unique blend of absurdity, emotional indulgence, and dark humor intertwining in an immensely original plot. With its navigations around difficult themes in the most hilarious ways, it succeeds in presenting a wide range of emotions to viewers, managing to touch their hearts while making them laugh.

Set in a quaint Los Angeles neighborhood, the movie introduces us to Stan and Jeannie Upshaw (played by Kevin Pollak and Illeana Douglas), a middle-aged married couple struggling with a failing bed-and-breakfast operation and a stagnant relationship. Their B&B, once the talk of the town, has now lost its charm and is on the brink of closure. Their personal lives add another layer to their struggles; their marriage, marked by estranged love and heated arguments, is close to breaking point. Stan is a mild-mannered man, known for his wit and culinary expertize, but he's battling severe acute depression. Jeannie, on the other hand, has her struggles with her nagging mother and her personal frustrations about her loveless marriage and failing business.

When it appears that their lives cannot possibly get more chaotic, the film introduces us to an array of peculiar and eccentric customers. With the Upshaw's B&B acting as the backdrop, these guests bring a new dynamic to the duo's life. From a spiritual guru who can't stop chanting strange mantras, to a jittery businessman obsessed with silence — the eccentricity that each of these characters brings makes the viewers chuckle throughout.

However, the story takes a significant turn when an unexpected customer named Benny Applebaum (portrayed by Greg Grunberg) turns up. Benny, a lovable know-it-all, brings a certain energy to the B&B with his quirky antics and frank remarks. He's an overbearing but strangely witty character who takes it upon himself to turn around the Upshaw's failing business and revive the spark in their marriage. Despite facing the owners' incessant resistance, Benny starts renovating the place and even stirs up some love-themed events for the customers. Through this character, the film incorporates laughter in the stressful reality of the Upshaw's lives, making it a delight to watch for viewers.

Meanwhile, the actress Molly Sims enters the narrative as Adelaide, a former lover of Stan's who brings yet another twist to the plot. Her mysterious presence adds a romantic element while also complicating the already twisted marital relationship further. As Stan and Jeannie each try to struggle with their own past mistakes and regrets, the surprising revelations about Adelaide add a level of depth to their characters.

One of the most poignant features of Chez Upshaw is its portrayal of Stan's depression. In a society where mental health issues are so often stigmatized and silenced, the movie takes a brave step of showcasing Stan’s battle and its impact on their lives. It's a unique blend of bittersweet humor and an honest depiction of mental health, making it thought-provoking for anyone dealing with or knowing someone dealing with mental health concerns.

Chez Upshaw, with its eccentric characters and unconventional storyline, is a fantastically unorthodox movie that compels viewers to observe life from an entirely different, often hilarious, perspective. This film is a testament to Bruce Mason's directorial prowess, the compelling performances by the actors, and the seamless transition of characters from serious to comical, cannot go unnoticed. As this roller-coaster of a movie reaches an unexpected climax, viewers can't help but reflect on the essence of life, relationships, and the magic of hearty laughter. Overall, Chez Upshaw is a delightful comedy-drama abundantly loaded with real-life moments turned into unconventional hilarity.