Ordinary World

Ordinary World is American comedy-drama film released in 2016, which stars punk rock musician Billie Joe Armstrong of Green Day fame, along with talented actors Fred Armisen and Judy Greer. Drawing on Armstrong's real-life musical roots, the film presents his debut in a dramatic leading role, showcasing his talent not only as a musician but also as an actor. The film is written and directed by Lee Kirk, known for his work on other popular features such as "The Giant Mechanical Man."

Set in a bustling New York City backdrop, Ordinary World is an evocative journey of Perry Miller (Billie Joe Armstrong), a middle-aged man grappling with the mundaneness of adult life. Once the lead singer of a moderately successful punk-rock band, Perry has transitioned into a more ordinary and less exciting existence. He's now a loving father and devoted husband, leading a conventional life as he manages his family's hardware store.

On his 40th birthday, Perry finds himself at a crossroads, yearning for the breakneck pace and spontaneousness of his former rock-and-roll lifestyle while also cherishing the stability and comfort of his present world. With his wife Karen (Selma Blair) and their two children at the center of his universe, Perry struggles with his current reality, which is a far cry from his wilder, punk days.

The film observes Perry's 40th birthday, where his wife and family forget about his special day, spiraling him into a mid-life crisis. Compelled to bring an element of his past back into his life, Perry opts to throw himself an extravagant, last-minute party in the presidential suite of the Drake Hotel, where he encounters a host of vibrant and eccentric characters. Among the characters are an old bandmate, played by Fred Armisen and his overbearing younger, responsible sister portrayed by Judy Greer. This wild, comical journey allows Perry to not only revisit his past but also face his present and future, prompting a self-exploration of his identity and desires.

Hopeful and bittersweet, Ordinary World is an homage to the struggles often experienced in middle age, juggling the love for family and the yearning for personal aspirations and desires. While embodying the essence of a comedy-drama, the film also provides a humorous, heartwarming, and, at times, nostalgic reflection of a past life that is missed but not necessarily desired back.

Billie Joe Armstrong offers a compelling performance, seamlessly transitioning from the punk rock scene to narrative cinema. Although Armstrong has performed for large audiences as the lead vocalist, lyricist, and guitarist for the rock band Green Day, Ordinary World showcases a new aspect of his talents as he brilliantly portrays the complex character of Perry. Armstrong’s onscreen performance displays a surprising depth and a performance skill that goes beyond his musical acclaim.

Fred Armisen, best known for his work on “Saturday Night Live” and "Portlandia," brings his own unique comedic style to the film, complementing the overall tone and feeling. Judy Greer offers a comfortable, relatable portrayal of a sibling's love and concern, depicting the challenges faced by families in balancing care and expectation.

The film's soundtrack is yet another highlight, providing a backdrop against which the story unfolds. Fans of Armstrong and Green Day will undoubtedly enjoy the musical element of the film, with the soundtrack primarily composed by Armstrong himself. His musical influence is woven seamlessly through the movie, acting as a catalyst for the film's narrative progression.

In summary, Ordinary World is an empathetic portrayal of the struggle many face in adulthood: reconciling the dreams and promises of youth with the realities and responsibilities of grown life. Balancing humor with relatable struggles, the film offers a fresh perspective on a common narrative. Anchored by compelling performances, particularly by Armstrong, and filled with an outstanding musical landscape, Ordinary World invites viewers to reflect on their own lives, dreams, and realities. While it's a departure from Armstrong's usual stage of rock and roll, it's a journey worth accompanying him on.