'Brad's Status (2017)' is, essentially, an exploration of first-world problems, the sort of issues that seem trivial in the grand scheme of things yet also hold great importance for those experiencing them. The movie balances both sides of this equation remarkably well, never feeling as though it looks down on those like its protagonist but also keeping their problems in perspective. It's a very insular sort of experience; we're firmly inside the head of our hero throughout. He narrates his ruminative inner thoughts, struggling to come to terms with his place in life. It's often somewhat downbeat but always manages to avoid feeling 'depressing', for want of a better word. The experience is often rather funny and it renders its characters in a realistically multi-faceted way. Its central father-son dynamic is believable and, even, affecting on occasion. It's really what holds the film together, alongside an excellently grounded lead performance from Stiller. In the end, the affair is engaging and enjoyable, despite being a little deflating. 7/10
Review of Brad's Status
