In an attempt to leap from stand-up comedy to the silver screen, Nate Bargatze’s new film, *The Breadwinner*, falls flat, failing to deliver the charm of his beloved stage performances. This family-centric comedy, which bears an uncanny resemblance to early 2000s Adam Sandler fare, struggles to find its footing as it ventures into the complexities of parenting and domestic life.
A Familiar Formula
Nate Bargatze, known for his deadpan humour and relatable anecdotes, takes on the role of a suburban dad named Nate—a character whose struggles echo those of countless sitcom fathers from decades past. His wife, Katie, portrayed by Mandy Moore, appears to be a beacon of competence, managing their three daughters while pursuing her entrepreneurial dreams. The plot thickens when Katie leaves the family to pitch her home-organisation invention on *Shark Tank*, leaving Nate to navigate the often-overlooked challenges of running a household.
While the premise holds promise, Bargatze and co-writer Andrew J. Cohen seem to rely heavily on clichés rather than developing a fresh narrative. The film’s humour, reminiscent of Sandler’s lesser works like *Grown Ups*, often feels tired and predictable, failing to connect with a modern audience.
Supporting Cast Struggles to Shine
The film features a host of familiar faces from *Saturday Night Live*, including Will Forte, who plays an incompetent roofer named Keegan, and Colin Jost in a minor role as a fellow dad. While Forte injects some much-needed energy into his performance, the chemistry between him and Bargatze often feels lopsided. In scenes meant to highlight Nate’s cluelessness, Bargatze’s delivery lacks the rhythm and timing necessary to elevate the material.
The film’s attempts at humour often veer into uncomfortable territory, hinting at deeper emotional struggles faced by dads like Nate while failing to deliver any meaningful commentary. The film’s handling of these themes feels superficial, leaving viewers yearning for a more nuanced exploration of parenting dynamics.
A Missed Opportunity for Realism
*The Breadwinner* aims to shed light on the often-unseen labour of motherhood, but it inadvertently amplifies Nate’s trivial concerns, making them seem disproportionate. The film presents a wealthy family grappling with issues that many would consider luxuries, such as juggling multiple school drop-offs, without ever questioning the absurdity of their situation.
Director Eric Appel, despite his experience in television, struggles to create a cohesive narrative. The film’s pacing feels disjointed, with scenes that lack the necessary focus to drive the story forward. A comedic moment involving Nate’s daughters and their numerous towels is a bright spot, showcasing the potential for relatable humour, yet it is overshadowed by the film’s overall lack of depth.
Navigating the Landscape of Modern Comedy
While *The Breadwinner* is not devoid of laughs—a few clever moments shine through—its reliance on outdated tropes and predictable storytelling renders it less impactful than it aspires to be. As Bargatze makes his foray into film, one can only hope that future projects will allow him to showcase his unique comedic voice in a manner that resonates with contemporary audiences.
The film is currently showing in US cinemas, with UK and Australian release dates expected soon. However, it remains to be seen whether *The Breadwinner* will find its audience or ultimately be relegated to the realm of forgettable family comedies.
Why it Matters
As the landscape of comedy continues to evolve, so too must the narratives we choose to explore. *The Breadwinner* serves as a reminder that simply repackaging familiar themes doesn’t guarantee success. In an age where audiences crave authenticity and innovation, the film’s shortcomings highlight the need for fresh perspectives in storytelling. As we navigate the complexities of modern family life, it is imperative that our comedies reflect the diverse realities of today’s households, rather than retreating into tired clichés.
