Short films matter. Vimeo wants you to know it. So do we. That’s why every week we’ll take a look at some of the short film world’s best and brightest. This week, we bring you Danny DeVito’s warmhearted comedy Curmudgeons.
The Plot: True love came late for Ralph and Jackie, but they’re determined to hold on to it.
The Film:
Most people would agree that getting old does not have many perks. But they’d also agree that getting to a point in your life where you no longer care what people think of you is something to look forward to. DeVito’s latest film takes that logic to heartfelt and hilarious new heights in the form of its titular seniors Ralph and Jackie. Set within the confines of a single room in a retirement home, Curmudgeons puts its foulmouthed elders front and center and spins a stirring tale of modern love from the pair’s ‘devil may care’ view of the world.
Those old timers are played David Margulies and Danny DeVito respectively. And each brings an obstinate frankness to their role that leaves the film radiating with authenticity. Margulies in particular shines as Ralph, conveying a warmth and candor rarely glimpsed by the actor in his storied career. DeVito brings his own incisive wit to the mix, bestowing every barbed comment and tender caress with an infectious energy.
That energy is good for big laughs and big emotions throughout Curmudgeons, but it’s also what makes Joshua Conkel’s soft-hearted tale of true love resonate from the film’s charming opening moments to its sticky sweet finale. Whatever your personal beliefs are, Curmudgeons will resonate. It’s that rare love story that proves to be as honest as it is insightful … and as funny as it is affecting. It’s a film that invites you in with open arms and dares you to try and judge it. Don’t even think about it. What Curmudgeons may lack in depth or style, it more that makes up for in heart. So get ready to open yours.
Meet The Crew:
Directed by: Danny DeVito Written by: Joshua Conkel Starring: David Margulies, Danny DeVito, Lucy DeVito, Sarah Hayon & Kett Turton Cinematography by: Lucas Beiton Music by: Jon Brion
I hope you enjoy Curmudgeons! I won’t waste your time bestowing praise on the inimitable Danny DeVito. You either know what a profoundly gifted writer/director/actor/producer he is or you’ve been living in a vacuum for the past 40 years. Either way, you can be assured that pretty much any project he’s involved in will be at least interesting … and sometimes quite great. Curmudgeons errs closer to the latter, so don’t miss out. And once you’ve finished watching it, be sure to head over to Vimeo and check out a few of the thousands of the other short films – animated, live action and documentary – their team has curated for your viewing pleasure (via desktop or mobile device – SWEET!). You’re sure to find something interesting. And you may just stumble across the next great filmmaker.
