The Big Ask

The Big Ask is a 2013 film that artistically navigates the corridors of complex human emotions, as it throws light upon some pressing issues related to mental health, relationships, and how well-meaning friendships dispense with awkward situations with grace. This black comedy-drama is directed by Thomas Beatty and Rebecca Fishman and showcases a profound ensemble cast, including Gillian Jacobs, Zachary Knighton, and David Krumholtz.

The Big Ask tells the story of three couples who venture on a vacation in the vast desert of California, looking forward to an idyllic getaway from their bustling city lives. Yet as the desert unveils its silent stories, the characters too unwrap the layers of their personalities. A situation from unexpected left-field lands them into a dramatically awkward dilemma.

Gillian Jacobs, best known for her role in Community, essays the character of Emily. Jacobs is a fearless actress who has repeatedly shown an ability to tackle difficult, emotionally fraught roles, and in The Big Ask, she takes on yet another challenging part with bravery and charisma. Her on-screen significant other, Andrew, is played with aplomb by David Krumholtz, who audiences will recognize from his roles in films like 10 Things I Hate About You and the Harold and Kumar series. Andrew is going through a personal crisis; dealing with the loss of his mother which has plunged him into the quagmire of grief.

Next is Zachary Knighton, the confident guy who keeps the group held together. He portrays the character of Owen, who’s dating the free-spirited Hannah (Ahna O’Reilly). There’s also the iconic comedic character Dave (Jason Ritter), happily committed to the understanding Zoe (Melanie Lynskey).

Essentially, the vacation turns out to be a roller-coaster ride when Andrew comes out with ‘The Big Ask’. What starts as a harmless desert getaway morphs unconventionally into a chat about dealing with grief, trials of long-term relationships, and the complexities of friendships when faced with absurd requests. Andrew’s unexpected plea forces everyone to question their limits of empathy towards a troubled friend and puts their relationships to a test.

The screenwriting exploits comedy, drama, and melancholy copiously to convey a highly relatable and contemporary narrative. The writing, along with the terrific acting by the ensemble ensures multiple moments of joyous laughter that gradually translate into a deeper understanding of human frailties.

On a filmmaking level, The Big Ask shines in showing the serene desert landscape juxtaposed against the turbulence of its characters' emotions. The depiction of the vast, desolate desert mirrors the emotional emptiness and loneliness that Andrew is feeling.

Although dealing with intense, thought-provoking subjects, the filmmakers manage to make The Big Ask accessible to viewers by expertly balancing the drama with comedy. Genial humor is inserted in just the right places to combat the film's dark themes, ensuring that while viewers are encouraged to ponder the complexities of human emotion, they can also enjoy lighter moments of laughter.

What also makes The Big Ask a genuine gem is its spotlight on mental health. It explores how people grapple with pain and use divergent strategies to cope with bereavement. Andrew’s request might seem extreme, but as the movie progresses, you become privy to his grapples with the los and his desperate attempts to recreate a sense of familial composure.

The Big Ask is poignant and hilarious at times, and it is a well-written and well-acted indie delight. The script continues to keep audiences engaged with sharp curves of the story, ensuring a fascinating screen journey. The story is unconventional, yet it brims the screens with a deeply honest portrayal of life, making it a beautiful blend of complex emotions danced out with brilliant intricacies.

Synopsis aside, The Big Ask is also a cinematic study of relationships and how they are often complex, messy, and full of uncomfortable moments. This brilliant work of art courageously attempts to unveil the unexplored facets of dealing with grief alongside exploring the elasticity of friendship and love.

In conclusion, The Big Ask is an emotionally resonant film that takes a unique premise and uses it to explore the many facets of human relationships. With its heartfelt performances and introspective script, it serves a healthy dose of entertainment with a side of food for thought. Immerse yourself into an intricate blend of drama and comedy, that is sure to leave a lasting impact.