Michael (Mark Duplass) and Andy (Ray Romano) are friends who live in the same apartment complex. Both single, they share a love of homemade pizza, Kung fu movies and the ball game they created called Paddleton. The film opens with Michael being diagnosed with terminal cancer and what follows is a bitter sweet comedy about the platonic love they share and the short time they have left.

Paddleton is the sort of low key film that really deserves a larger audience than being buried in Netflix many offerings. It’s very funny, features exceptional performances from the two leads and packs an almighty emotional punch.

It’s 89 minute running time follows the two through their daily routines and coming to terms with their impending loss. Mark Duplass, who co-wrote the script with director Alex Lehmann is known for this sort of material, his pitch perfect performance is almost expected. Ray Romano on the other hand is probably best known for his comedy roles and as a result it’s his performance that really stands out. He is brilliantly understated portraying a man who struggles with small talk and human interaction who is facing losing his best friend.

Technically it’s everything you expect of a low key independent film. Set in “normal” run of the mill locations with no bells or whistles it feels realistic and believable.

I would highly recommend a watch.