Together Together

Together Together, released in 2021, is a heartwarming and delightful comedy-drama that transcends the typical boundaries of romantic, parent-child, and platonic relationships. This movie features a dynamic cast led by Ed Helms and Patti Harrison, under the skilled direction and clever scripting of Nikole Beckwith.

The story revolves around an unconventional pair, Matt (played by Ed Helms) and Anna (played by Patti Harrison). Matt is a single, lonely app developer in his forties, who has always wanted a family but has no significant other. Instead of waiting for an unpredictable future, Matt decides to pursue his parenthood dreams through surrogacy. Anna, on the other hand, is a young woman who is looking to put her life together and create a fresh start. She takes up Matt's offer to become a surrogate, setting into motion a series of events that weave together their lives in unexpected ways and forcing both of them to confront their own loneliness and desires for change.

Patti Harrison, well known for her comedic roles in TV shows like "Shrill" and "Search Party", brings depth and dimension to her character, Anna. She exhibits skillful character development, making Anna, a person who has made questionable choices in the past, seem relatable and sympathetic. Harrison offers a nuanced portrayal of a woman grappling with her past while making decisions about her future, displaying a spectrum of emotions ranging from deep sadness to sardonic cynicism.

Ed Helms, popularly known for his role in "The Hangover" franchise and "The Office", brings his trademark affable charm to the character of Matt. The loneliness and earnest desire for parenthood are evident in Helms' performance; his blend of humor and earnestness adds gravitas to Matt’s character. The chemistry between Harrison and Helms is surprisingly effortless and genuine, making their evolving relationship believable and authentic.

Beyond the leading actors, the film features a strong supporting cast that serves to underscore the central themes of connection, belonging, and the multifaceted nature of love. Rosalind Chao, playing a significant supporting role, embodies a wise and supportive character providing insight and a different perspective on the journey shared by Matt and Anna.

Director Nikole Beckwith's approach to the narrative is unique and beautifully executed. She carefully avoids usual rom-com tropes and focuses on the development of the characters and their relationship, seeing it grow from a business arrangement to a deep bond that defies traditional labelling. She presents a story of two people, strangers at first, who eventually become each other's sole source of emotional support during their unique shared experience. This culminates in a poignant exploration of unconventional familial ties and emotional bonds.

The cinematography is simple yet inviting, and the score underlines the comedy and drama effectively. The movie is rife with humor and tender moments, making for an enjoyable viewing experience. It also contains poignant reflections on societal norms, tackling subjects such as loneliness, societal expectations about parenting, and the concept of a non-conventional family structure.

Together Together effectively serves to dismantle preconceived notions surrounding love and joy, relationships and family, nurture and care. This witty and warm movie delves into the complexities of human bonds and succumbs to neither clichés nor predictability, which is a refreshing change from typical romantic comedies. The film's strength lies in its sensitive portrayal of the protagonists, their desires and anxieties, and their unprecedented relationship.

In conclusion, Together Together is a gently funny, unorthodox, and moving exploration of human connection. It expertly tackles complex issues surrounding parenthood, relationships, and identity with an understated humor and sensitivity. With its impressive performances, thought-provoking narrative, and keen insight into the human heart, Together Together is a film that is likely to provoke both laughter and reflection, making it a deeply satisfying viewing experience.