Bite of the James

The Fundamentals of Caring

What is it about the accomplishments of others that makes us inspired? Rising from rock bottom to the top is motivating in some ways. I have always wondered this. Is it that other people make it look easy? Is it that it is comforting to know that someone else on the planet has problems? This feeling of encouragement can also be found within the films we watch. It’s a Wonderful Life, Life of Pi, and The Descendants are just a couple of films that have come to inspire millions of movie fans. There is one more film that I would like to add to that list, a Netflix film starring Paul Rudd (Ant-Man) titled The Fundamentals of Caring.

The Story: After suffering a tragic loss, Ben (Rudd) has decided to retire from writing and become a personal caregiver. His first patient is a sarcastic and brash teen, Trevor (Craig Roberts Red Oaks), who suffers from Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Soon after an awkward start to their relationship, Ben discovers that Trevor has a map of places that he wants to visit and after a little convincing of Trevor’s mother, Elsa (Jennifer Ehle Fifty Shades of Grey), the pair on soon on the road trip that may change both of them in ways they may not have expected.

The Good: The Fundamentals of Caring is a pleasant surprise of Netflix. Not entirely sure that Netflix could produce quality films, but this film is starting to change my mind. This well-made indie flick is full of heart and charm. I found myself really caring for these characters and it was definitely due to the awesome performances of Rudd and Roberts. Paul Rudd brings a unique depression to his character of Ben. While trying to keep himself distracted by his own problems, Ben keeps himself busy with Trevor and Rudd brings that depth so magically. Roberts, meanwhile, uses his foul-mouthed humor to mask his depression and yet we the audience are able to see right through him. Roberts does a great job of getting the audience to sympathize with him, not because of his disability, but because of his real human qualities. Director Rob Burnett has a wonderful way of using the camera and really capturing the inner workings of both of these main characters.

The Bad: This was by no means a perfect movie, but then again there was really nothing that I could complain about. I think that the writers could have delved deeper into Ben’s failed marriage and why his wife wanted a divorce. I also think there were a few things left unanswered, but nothing that was detrimental to the plotline of the film.

The Verdict: This is a sweet little movie with a lot of heart. This is a film that I would recommend to anyone looking to stay in and enjoy some Netflix. Rudd and Roberts shine as two of the most fractured friends that need each other to heal.

Worth Your Time.