Paddleton 2019

The film begins with Michael (Mark Duplass) and Andy (Ray Romano) at a doctor’s office, where they receive devastating news from the doctor—Michael has cancer that has metastasized. While the doctor suggests consulting a specialist for further information, Andy interjects, eager to learn more but is met with evasiveness. Michael processes this shattering news stoically, showing little emotion.

The narrative shifts to a desolate drive-in theater where the duo engages in a unique game they devised called Paddleton. With tennis rackets in hand, they attempt to hit racquetballs into a barrel, showcasing their playful camaraderie. Later, back at Andy’s apartment, they indulge in making pizza and watch their cherished flick, Death Punch. Their shared familiarity with the film is evident as they quote lines in unison and mimic its action sequences, highlighting their deep bond filled with inside jokes.

Subsequent scenes reveal their daily lives; both go to work—Michael at a copy shop while Andy is in an office—before continuing their Paddleton game or working on a jigsaw puzzle while re-watching Death Punch. The warmth of their friendship shines through as they share laughter and easy conversations. However, Mike carries the burden of his prognosis. During a conversation, Andy expresses his aspirations of delivering a motivating speech for a sports team, while Michael opens up about consulting two oncologists and learning that his time is limited. Michael confides to Andy that he wants to pursue an assisted suicide method he discovered and asks for his friend’s assistance. Despite his initial hesitation, Andy eventually agrees, seeking to honor Michael’s desire to make the most of their time together.

Their road trip to acquire the necessary prescription is laced with introspection and humor. They stop at an ostrich farm for Michael, highlighting his curiosity—“I’ve never seen one in real life.” When they arrive at the pharmacy, they encounter a setback—Phil, the pharmacist whom they had spoken to previously, is unavailable, and Andy’s credit card is denied during a purchase attempt. Following this, they check into a hotel where they find humor and comfort in their companionship. In a karaoke-bar scene filled with awkward moments, it becomes clear that Andy feels territorial about their friendship, especially as David (the pharmacist) joins them and disrupts their bond.

As they continue to navigate this journey, Andy’s eagerness to see Michael succeed clashes with Michael’s vulnerabilities. One morning, panic strikes when Andy discovers Michael and the prescription missing, only to find him calmly in the hotel lobby later. Their silence in the car ride back home speaks volumes about their emotional state. Upon returning, they share a moment of levity over a riddle that unlocks the safe’s combination, providing a glimpse into their enduring friendship.

As time passes, Michael’s health declines, leading to poignant moments, including a birthday celebration where Andy humorously acknowledges the reality of Michael’s condition. Eventually, the day comes when Michael expresses readiness to take his prescription. They share their final conversations filled with laughter and a touch of sadness, reminiscing about their first impressions of each other and the joy they found in simple activities.

As the clock ticks down, Andy prepares the lethal concoction, and they lay side by side on Michael’s bed. Michael, overwhelmed with fear, seeks comfort in Andy’s presence. He expresses his love for Andy, and as he draws his last breath, Andy reciprocates, adding a layer of heart-wrenching camaraderie to this moment of transition.

In the film’s aftermath, Andy grapples with life after losing his best friend, going through the motions—watching Death Punch and playing Paddleton alone. The closing scene introduces new life into Michael’s former apartment, as a mother and her son move in. While helping them settle, Andy offers to teach the boy Paddleton, signifying that while Michael is gone, the echoes of their friendship will linger on, reminding us that love and connection endure despite loss.