The Do-Over (2016) – Movie Review
Introduction
“The Do-Over,” directed by Steven Brill and released in 2016, is a comedy film produced by and starring Adam Sandler. Co-starring David Spade, the film is part of Sandler’s multi-picture deal with Netflix. It blends action, comedy, and elements of a buddy film, following two old friends who fake their deaths and assume new identities, only to find themselves in deeper trouble. This review covers the film’s plot, performances, direction, and where you can stream it in the USA.
Plot Summary
The film centers around Charlie McMillan (David Spade), a mild-mannered bank manager stuck in a monotonous and unfulfilling life. At a high school reunion, he reconnects with Max Kessler (Adam Sandler), a wild and adventurous old friend. Max proposes a radical idea: to fake their deaths and start over. Charlie reluctantly agrees, and the two successfully carry out their plan, assuming the identities of two deceased men.
However, their new lives are far from peaceful. The men whose identities they have taken were involved in dangerous activities, leading Charlie and Max into a series of misadventures involving criminals, conspiracies, and hidden treasures. As they navigate their new, chaotic lives, they uncover shocking truths and rediscover their friendship.
Performances
Adam Sandler and David Spade deliver performances typical of their comedic styles. Sandler’s portrayal of Max is energetic and mischievous, bringing his usual brand of humor to the role. Spade, on the other hand, plays the straight man to Sandler’s antics, with his character’s exasperation and bewilderment providing much of the film’s humor. The chemistry between the two leads is a highlight, reminiscent of their previous collaborations.
Supporting performances by Paula Patton, Kathryn Hahn, and Luis Guzmán add depth and additional humor to the film. Patton, in particular, stands out as Heather, a mysterious woman connected to the identities Max and Charlie have assumed.
Direction and Cinematography
Steven Brill’s direction focuses on delivering a mix of action and comedy, with a heavy reliance on physical humor and outrageous scenarios. The film’s pacing is brisk, moving quickly from one comedic set piece to another, though sometimes at the expense of character development and plot coherence.
The cinematography by Dean Semler captures the various locales effectively, from sun-soaked beaches to dimly lit hideouts, contributing to the film’s adventurous vibe. The action sequences are competently shot, though they often serve more as vehicles for humor than for genuine thrills.
Themes and Analysis
“The Do-Over” explores themes of friendship, identity, and the desire for a second chance. The film taps into the fantasy of starting over and escaping one’s mundane life, only to highlight that new beginnings come with their own set of challenges and complications. The narrative examines how true fulfillment and happiness often come from within, rather than from external changes or material wealth.
The film’s comedic approach to these themes, however, tends to prioritize humor over depth, resulting in a light-hearted but somewhat shallow exploration of its concepts. The reliance on typical Sandler-style humor may appeal to his fan base but might not resonate as well with broader audiences.
Streaming Availability
For viewers in the USA, “The Do-Over” is available on Netflix:
- Netflix: Available as part of the subscription service.
Conclusion
“The Do-Over” is a quintessential Adam Sandler comedy that combines humor, action, and the theme of reinventing one’s life. While it may not be a critical darling, the film provides plenty of laughs for fans of Sandler and David Spade. The dynamic between the two leads, coupled with the film’s fast-paced and outrageous plot, makes for an entertaining watch, albeit one that might lack depth and originality.
