An unlikely friendship between two misfit neighbors becomes an unexpectedly emotional journey when the younger man is diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Kudos to Netflix for yet another brilliant art house film that might not otherwise have been made. Paddleton is a no-drama, slow build-up portrayal of friendship, integrity and stepping up to the plate. It will sucker punch you in the gut and for that reason, you will either hate it or love it. I loved it.

There is not a whiff of Hollywood drama about this film. It develops slowly but will not bore you. Every scene is measured and both you and the cast have time to breathe. Most importantly, it is never sappy.

The leads were perfectly cast. Mark Duplass is certainly known for this kind of role (Blue Jay, Safety nog guaranteed), but it is Ray Romano that astounds. Andy and Michael are functional human beings, they are quite emotionally adept as well. They are merely misfits because they are content with the close friendship they share watching cheesy movies, eating pizzas and playing paddleton. They don’t need more from life and this is what makes the portrayal of this friendship so unique.

It is a simple tale, beautifully told.