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Created Mar 23, 2011 11:46AM PST • Edited Mar 23, 2011 11:46AM PST

1. Quality

2. Summary

   Good 3.0

   The Duplass Brother’s first full-length film is a low-budget enjoyable comedic road trip adventure. Mark Duplass stars as Jay, who finds the perfect gift on eBay for his father’s birthday; a purple puffy chair similar to one his Dad used to own. Jay sets off on a long road trip from New York to Virginia, to pick the chair up, and then to surprise his father for his birthday. Along for the ride are his needy girlfriend Emily (Katie Aselton), and his flaky brother Rhett (Rhett Wilkins).

   The movie is an enjoyable ride, as the characters experience one problem after another. Duplass comes across as a frustrated guy trying to do the right thing. His mannerisms and facial expressions were somewhat reminiscent of John Krasinski, the likable guy from the TV Show "The Office,” a laidback good guy who has to deal with the two goofballs he is traveling with.

   Wilkins is great playing the free-spirited Rhett, always seeming to be on his own wavelength. Generally harmless, but always seeming to get into trouble.

   Although my first experience with mumblecore was somewhat mixed, I found this adventure to be enjoyable. Maybe it was the refreshing earnestness of the movie, using real moms and dads for actors. Maybe it was just a better story. I don’t know, but I did enjoy this movie, and I can see why so many fans like what the Duplass brothers have to offer.

4. Acting

   OK 2.5

5. Male Stars Good 3.0

   Duplass is wonderful in his role, showing great anst as things gradually fall apart in his world.

6. Female Stars OK 2.5

   Aselton does an OK job playing the high-maintenance girlfriend always looking for romantic affirmation.

7. Female Costars OK 2.5

8. Male Costars Good 3.0

   Wilkins is great as the goofy brother who tags along.

10. Film

    OK 2.5

11. Direction Good 3.0

    Although shot with a low budget, The Duplass boys get the biggest bang for the buck, showing that a great storyline doesn’t need a big budget.

12. Play OK 2.5

13. Music OK 2.5

14. Visuals Good 3.0
15. Content

16. Edge

    Risqué 1.6

17. Sex Titillating 1.6

18. Violence Gentle 1.0

19. Rudeness Salty 2.3

    Salty language

21. Reality

    Natural 1.0

22. Circumstantial Natural 1.0

23. Biological Natural 1.0

24. Physical Natural 1.0