The read
Audiences rate it 12 points higher than critics do. It runs a compact 1h 29m.
Synopsis
Ben Singer is a failed children's folk singer, a career proofreader, a less-than-extraordinary weekend dad, and perhaps the most negative man alive. Floundering in all aspects of his life, Ben's only comfort comes from regular chess games and friendly debates on game theory with his Senegalese roommate Ibou. When Ibou is suddenly struck ill, Ben's pessimistic worldview seems unequivocally confirmed. It takes an extended visit from Ibou's sister Khadi for Ben to realize that cynicism may be all a matter of perspective.
Ratings
IMDb6/10
Rotten Tomatoes42%
Metacritic48/100
Audiences rate it 12 points higher than critics do.
54 audience votes
Key crew
- Joshua GoldinDirector
- Joshua GoldinWriter
- Craig RicheyOriginal Music Composer
Cast
- Matthew BroderickBen Singer
- Sanaa LathanKhadi
- Michael Kenneth WilliamsIbu
- Philip Baker HallThe Man
- Jesse Tyler FergusonCyril
- Jodelle FerlandSandra
- Ally WalkerEliza
- Mia FordMaxine - Cyril's Daughter
Stills
Themes
comaguitardark comedysenegalmarijuanainterracial relationshipchildren's entertainer