The R.M.

The R.M. is a comedy movie released in 2003, directed by Kurt Hale, with lively performances from Kirby Heyborne, Daryn Tufts, and Will Swenson. The movie revolves around the life of Jared Phelps, portrayed by Kirby Heyborne, who returns home from his two-year missionary assignment with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, only to find that life is not as he left it and that resuming his old life won't be smooth sailing.

Jared Phelps, the main protagonist played by the charming Kirby Heyborne, is an enthusiastic Mormon missionary who devotes two years of his life spreading his faith across Australia. Upon his return home to America after completing his mission, he is shocked to discover that everything has changed; the world he knew is no longer the same. His academic scholarship, which was supposed to secure his future, is lost. He no longer holds a secure place in his girlfriend’s heart. His vibrant career prospects seem to have shattered overnight.

Jared, once a respected family figure, finds his parents and brother have moved, leaving no clues to their whereabouts. Unexpectedly, his old world feels alien to him. Suddenly jobless and homeless, he is cast aside by the society he holds dearly to his heart for a mistake he isn't aware of. Jared believed he would regally return home to a hero's welcome. But instead, he shuffles back a defeated, ridiculed man, his noble dreams crashing down.

Despite the challenges he faces, Jared now must navigate the complexities of adulthood without any support system. His hopes and faith dwindle as he experiences one failure after another in his professional and personal life. His struggle of fitment in the world he once belonged to shapes the movie theater drama.

The film offers a mix of comedy and drama, making for engaging entertainment while lightly touching on the quirks associated with transitions in one’s life. The portrayal of an individual navigating through life’s unexpected challenges provides an intriguing narrative of faith, optimism, and resilience.

Daryn Tufts and Will Swenson share a commendable on-screen presence, and their interactions with Kirby Heyborne add depth to the movie. Daryn Tufts plays an old work friend of Jared while Will Swenson plays a handyman who helps him find his place in this confusing new world. These relationships provide a poignant backdrop for humor and personal growth as they interact in unexpected and often humorous ways, contributing contrasting perspectives on life's ups and downs.

Director Kurt Hale does an excellent job of spinning a story around the life of returned missionaries and the lifestyle changes they face. The film’s playful script not only incorporates the subtle nuances of Mormon life into its dialogue but also ventures out to highlight universal themes that anyone can relate to. It pokes fun at things many young adults can identify with, such as the search for a stable job, the pursuit of higher education, or managing a long-term relationship.

One of the unique qualities of The R.M. is its ability to bring humor to religious devotion, societal expectations, and personal disappointments. The film doesn’t shy away from blending light-hearted humor with spiritual discourse, creating a resonant and often heartwarming narrative that sticks with the viewer.

While The R.M. may seem to highlight the specific life challenges faced by a Mormon missionary, it is also a commentary on how unexpected life can be. The film underscores the universal idea that realities often diverge sharply from our expectations. Most importantly, it echoes the message that perseverance and maintaining faith, while embracing challenges and disappointments, can steer us towards inner growth and happiness.

With brilliant performances, a sprinkle of humor, and a significant underlying message, The R.M. projects life's unpredictability and the struggle of a young man adjusting to sudden and surprising life changes. It's a must-watch for those looking for a movie that skillfully mixes humor with life lessons.