This Prime Video Buddy Comedy Is a Perfect Pick for Those Who Miss 'Reacher' & Alan Ritchson
This movie shows that sharing an absurd adventure and laughing at yourself are sometimes the solutions to life's problems.
Alan Ritchson is firmly associated with the image of the gritty loner like vigilante Jack Reacher and the demigod Aquaman.
However, his new comedic role showcases a different side of his talent. Playdate, directed by Luke Greenfield, is a return to the roots of the buddy comedy genre where the plot centers on finding friendship rather than saving the world.
What Is 'Playdate' About?
Jeff (Alan Ritchson) is the new man on the block. He's muscular, confident, and trying to build a relationship with his son, CJ.
At the playground, Jeff meets Brian (Kevin James), an awkward and insecure man who has just lost his job and must become a stay-at-home dad while his wife supports the family.
Their sons quickly hit it off, forcing the two men to spend time together. Brian, trying to be the perfect dad, sees Jeff as an unattainable ideal. However, their awkward interactions soon turn into incredible adventures.
'Playdate' Is Not a Masterpiece, but It's a Hilarious and Relaxing Buddy Action Comedy
Playdate doesn't claim to be high art, and its modest 23% score on Rotten Tomatoes speaks volumes about how critics received it. However, as is often the case with comedies, its true value lies in its ability to entertain a wide audience, not in critical analysis.
Playdate topped Prime Video's charts after its November release for a simple reason: it's a solid, fast-paced, unpretentious movie that delivers on its promise.
It combines action, absurd humor, and a heartwarming message about the importance of male friendship and fatherhood.
The Duet of Alan Ritchson and Kevin James Alone Makes 'Playdate' Worth Watching
Inspired by Owen Wilson's impulsive character in Bottle Rocket, Alan Ritchson plays a big kid in a Superman's body. His character, Jeff, is serious and straightforward. He finds himself in absurd situations with an unwavering expression, creating the movie's funniest moments.
Kevin James, a comedy veteran, is perfect as Brian, a loser whose clumsiness and sincerity evoke sympathy and laughter.
The contrast between Ritchson's character, with his muscle and naive heroism, and James', with his insecurity and worldly confusion, drives the entire narrative.
What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'Playdate'?
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Playdate has 23% from critics and 58% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.
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On IMDb, the movie has a score of 5.5/10.
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On Letterboxd, Playdate scored 2.2/5.0.
