How To Be

How To Be, a 2008 British independent comedy-drama, stars Robert Pattinson as the lead character, Art. The film received critical acclaim following its premiere at the Slamdance Film Festival.

Robert Pattinson steps out of his glossy-vampire cinematic universe and gives an intriguing turn as a lackluster and depressed young man, literally flailing through the complexities of life. Fans of Pattinson will be delighted to see him shed his brooding vampire persona and genuinely delivering comedic moments, blended with the drudgery of existential troubles.

The story revolves around Art, a young man in his 20s, seeking meaning and purpose in the midst of his seemingly unexciting life, which is confounded by ongoing issues with his parents played by Rebecca Pidgeon and Powell Jones. Art, despite being an adult, goes through deep-seated issues surrounding his childhood, maturity, and expectations. Art perfectly represents the modern-day youth going through an existential crisis, struggling with disappointments, a disappointing love life, and parental expectations.

Crises come to a head when Art’s girlfriend ends their relationship, leaving him devastated. This break-up serves as the catalyst for him to change his life and rethink his purpose in the world. Art’s quest leads him to self-help guru and unconventional therapist, Dr. Levi Ellington, whose quirky methods and out-of-the-box style of getting to the root of his clients' problems make the narrative even more intriguing. Art believes that Dr. Ellington, armed with his unconventional wisdom, is the answer to his existential crisis.

The film portrays a unique journey of self-help and self-realization, digging deeper into Art's personal dilemmas. It is a character study of a young man, battling his confusing life, facing his relationship with his parents, dealing with a breakup, and trying to seek a higher truth, all with a slice-of-life charm marked with comedic elements.

The cast of How To Be, led by Robert Pattinson, delivers exceptional performances. Pattinson, known for his roles in more intense and brooding genres, surprises with his profound knack for comedy. His portrayal of Art is relatable, impactful, and a standout performance that showcases Pattinson’s versatility as an actor. Rebecca Pidgeon and Powell Jones as Art’s parents brilliantly convey the strain and complicated dynamics of a parent-child relationship.

The elements of comedy throughout the film serve as its strength, smoothly blended with the serious matter of personal crises. The banter and antics between Art and his friends contribute significantly to the comedic aspect of the film, providing several light-hearted moments. The unconventional yet relatable scenes allow viewers to connect with the characters on a deeper level.

The soundtrack of the movie is another highlight. Pattinson himself contributes to the music, affirming his multi-talent persona. The subtle, acoustic tunes resonate with the film's theme, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

Directed by Oliver Irving, How To Be strikes a balance between comedy and drama, maintaining a certain levity while discussing serious life issues. Irving's skilful direction presents a unique portrayal of a twenty-something's life, giving the film a distinctive and relatable edge.

Furthermore, the film's thematic elements, such as existentialism, relationships, and the pursuit of happiness, are presented in a relatable format, making it an engaging watch for viewers, particularly the younger demographic who may personally identify with Art’s struggles.

In conclusion, How To Be is an engaging, thoughtful, and buoyant movie which balances existential problems with bright moments of comedy. The movie stands out due to its relatable premise, commendable performances, especially Robert Pattinson's portrayal of Art, and clear depiction of a modern young adult's struggle with life. It is a must-watch for those looking for an independent comedy-drama with a unique voice and perspective.