Poolman
Blonde Chris Pine returns with his directorial debut “Poolman.” The film is a character comedy based on the oddities of Los Angeles that spoofs 1940s spy films. Pine directed the film, as well as writing, producing, and playing the lead role, Darren Barenman.
Poolman Info
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | May 10, 2024 (USA) |
| Director | Chris Pine |
| Distributed by | Vertical |
| Box Office | $131,000 |
| Production Companies | AGC Studios; Shiny Penny; Wicious Pictures; CatchLight Studios; Barry Linen Motion Pictures |
67% liked this film, Google users | |
About,
Poolman entertaining story
Darren is a comical bridge sweeper with long hair and a beard who lives in a small trailer. He clears the same bridge which is located in the courtyard of an old tiki-style motel. This motel has now been converted into apartments. No one in the film uses mobile phones and the production and costume design are deeply reminiscent of the pre-1950s.
Darren meets a mysterious woman, June Del Rey, and a mystery takes over his life. The mystery involves real estate and the corruption of local councilman Stefan Toronkowski. Toronkowski raves about historic preservation and improved bus schedules at community meetings every week.
Important characters and real jokes
The film also references other films based on the corruption of Los Angeles, such as “Chinatown” and “Who Framed Roger Rabbit”. Although the story of this film is not very complicated the level of satire is quite good.
Darren is a handsome and lovable boy whose girlfriend Susan (Jennifer Jason Law) hopes for a serious relationship with him. But Darren is so lost in his thoughts that he cannot understand Susan’s love.
Darren visits New-Age therapist Dion (Annette Bening) every week, and Dion’s partner Jack (Danny DeVito) plans to make a documentary about him. Although it is not clear what this documentary will be about.
Poolman unique style
“Poolman” is a very strange movie. But its weirdness isn’t of the difficult or isolating kind. It is so soft that it can be placed in the “NiceScore” category. Nicecore films focus less on conflict or resolution and instead show people treating each other well.
There is some debate and betrayal in this film, but the murder is shown in such a formal manner that it does not seem violent. Most of the parts are either silent or have light witty interludes.
Yes, this movie is weird in the sense that only Chris Pine can appreciate it. I’m not saying this because I didn’t like the movie. But because it is a unique and entertaining film. Once you get the hang of it, you can enjoy the comedy, although it does start to get a little tiring towards the end as the entire film just shows Darren’s emotional inner side.
You don’t take on a project you’re not passionate about. But that passion is not easily visible every time.
Comparison of the film and its legacy
The film has been compared to films such as “The Big Lebowski” which mock Los Angeles noir. There are some superficial similarities. But I love this Jim Jarmusch nice score classic film.