Synopsis:
A Democrat political consultant who helps a retired Marine colonel run for mayor in a small Wisconsin town.
I already know what you’re thinking, with everything going on the last thing you want to watch is a movie structured around politics. However, with it being written and directed by Jon Stewart, Irresistible isn’t your average campaign story. With red and blue, right and left being the targets of the jokes, it’s a story we can all get behind. While divisive in some respects, the story calls out and exposes the hypocrisy, lies, and greed of American politics from the first scene to the last. If you are somewhat into government dealings, which most of us are after the last few years, this is a film you will enjoy. If you don’t care or don’t follow politics at all, it’s worth watching for the story alone and it’s crazy resolution. Not only is Irresistible smart and funny, but it’s well put together and I’d expect nothing less from its director. The trailer for this film only provides a soupçon of detail as to what the story is actually about and I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the outcome.
Chris Cooper stars as Jack Hastings, Brent Sexton as Mayor Braun and Steve Carell as Gary Zimmer in IRRESISTIBLE, a Focus Features release.
Credit: Daniel McFadden / Focus Features
The story is relevant and sadly true in many regards but we have to laugh at our pain, right? At least that’s what I tell myself. With its great writing, fantastic acting, and unexpected twist, Irresistible is a must-see comedy. Have a dose of levity with your politics. It felt reminiscent of Head of State to me but not as over the top. There’s a budding love story, old rivalries, and what happens when big game politics has to play on a smaller field. I enjoyed the running gags, the out of place character played by Steve Carrell, and the no holds barred antics by Rose Byrne’s character. This film provides perfect timing for a cease-fire and an opportunity for us all to laugh at ourselves and possibly bridge some gaps. I found Irresistible to be a great time and I believe you will too. Its rewatchability is at a medium-high.
Credit: Daniel McFadden / Focus Features
Plot & Pace
After losing to Trump the Democratic Party is scrambling to win back some constituents it previously lost. In order to do so strategist, Gary Zimmer needs to appeal to a more moderate demographic in the swing state of Wisconsin. Setting up camp in the small town of Deerlaken, Zimmer must convince a retired veteran to become a mayoral candidate. Also, that his party is the way to a better and more prosperous future for the financially crumbling town. In doing so, it attacks the attention of the Republican party, and the battle royal begins. The film wastes no time in making a point and gets to the story right away. The pace is part of what keeps you interested, no downtime.
Credit: Daniel McFadden / Focus Features
Characters & Chemistry
The cast was great. Gary Zimmer (Steve Carrell) is played perfectly. He’s overly confident yet very uncomfortable and also charming. at times. His rapport with Jack Hastings (Chris Cooper) is genuine. He really wants to help even if some of his intentions are selfish. Rose Byrne as Faith Brewster is the spark in this film. She provides the firepower that took the comedy up a level. Her rivalry with Carroll’s character could be a movie all by itself. Lastly, there is Diana Hastings (Mackenzie Davis) who is somewhat of a love interest but has a secret that is unknown to Zimmer.
Irresistible releases in select theaters and VOD on June 26th. Enjoy and stay safe.
Director: Jon Stewart
Writer: Jon Stewart
Rated: R
Runtime: 1h 41m
Rating: 4 out of 5
Senior Critic. Observing the human race since 1988.
