A Closer Look at “The Best You Can”
Meeting at Their Lowest: In Michael J. Weithorn’s poignant film, "The Best You Can," the initial encounter between Stan (played by Kevin Bacon) and Cynthia (portrayed by Kyra Sedgwick) unfolds far from the typical romanticized first meetings audiences expect. Instead, it feels as though they are participants in a real-life drama that acknowledges the struggles of everyday existence.
A Unique Premise
Weithorn, known for creating stories that veer away from conventional "meet cutes," introduces us to a duo whose paths cross during a moment of crisis. Stan, a former cop now working for a neighborhood security firm, arrives at Cynthia’s home, responding to her fears of an intruder. However, their interaction is anything but standard. Stan’s failure to announce himself properly initially makes Cynthia suspicious, setting a tone of disarray that reflects the chaos within their lives.
An Unexpected Connection
As the narrative progresses, it becomes clear how different yet similar their worlds are. Cynthia, a urologist, unexpectedly becomes the object of Stan’s affections. Their developing connection is beautifully captured through the lens of Bacon and Sedgwick’s real-life chemistry. This unique casting choice allows for a complex portrayal of human emotions, highlighting how unlikely allies often emerge from unexpected beginnings.
Humor Meets Heartache
While Stan provides security, his own life is marred by personal struggles: he is attempting to reconnect with his estranged daughter, Sammi (played by Brittany O’Grady), while also seeking to support Cynthia as she cares for her ailing husband, Warren (portrayed by Judd Hirsch). The juxtaposition of their lives adds depth to their emotional exchanges, which largely occur over text messages—a modern twist that illustrates how communication can both bridge and separate individuals.
Themes of Vulnerability and Support
Raw emotion permeates "The Best You Can." Love and companionship often intersect with feelings of inadequacy, making each character’s journey relatable. The film explores how, amid personal turmoils and societal expectations, individuals strive to do right by one another—albeit often in flawed ways.
Cinematic Brilliance
Visually arresting, Andrew Wonder’s cinematography effectively encapsulates the stark reality of the characters’ lives while highlighting moments of levity with sharp, vivid colors. This balance of light and darkness mirrors the film’s central themes, suggesting that understanding and love can break through even the toughest facades.
A Heartfelt Experience
"The Best You Can" goes beyond mere storytelling; it invites audiences into a world where everyone’s trying to navigate their struggles, leading to heartwarming, and sometimes hilarious, interactions. The impressive supporting cast, featuring actors like Olivia Luccardi and Heather Burns, enrich the narrative, further emphasizing the film’s exploration of community and human connection.
Where to Catch It
Don’t miss your chance to see “The Best You Can” as it screens again at the Tribeca Festival at the Village East. Mark your calendars for June 8th at 2:45 PM and June 9th at 2 PM, and later at the SVA Theatre on June 15th at 5:15 PM.
Conclusion
In the landscape of contemporary cinema, "The Best You Can" stands out for its authentic portrayal of love, resilience, and the human spirit’s capacity for connection. By moving past the surface-level charm of romantic meetings, Weithorn crafts a narrative that resonates deeply with the complexities of real life. Grab your tickets and prepare for an emotional journey that reflects the best—and sometimes the worst—of what it means to care for one another in this chaotic world.
