‘DUPLEX’: DREW BARRYMORE DOES FUNNY IN DARK COMEDY

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One of her early 2000s roles, Drew Barrymore plays in a more unusual role, but also, one that still fits. duplex

Duplex (2003) Film Review

Alex Rose (Ben Stiller) is an author with a debut novel that’s now in the bargain section. But close to finishing another book, he’s looking for somewhere quiet to work and meet that deadline. Together with his wife, Nancy (Barrymore), the pair find a Brooklyn place complete with a library that looks ideal. Plus it’s better for their future family life rather than being in the city. Everything falls into place, with one minor hiccup; the place being a duplex and having an upstairs neighbor.

Elderly and quite under the weather, Mrs. Connelly (Eileen Essell) is a nice neighbor for Alex and Nancy. But as time goes on, this trio discovers they may not be the best of neighbors.

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One of the few films with Drew Barrymore I hadn’t seen, Duplex is interesting. It’s both an unusual and even still, on brand role for her to play. (Does this make sense? Probably not, but we’ll use it.) The film is one of those darker comedies that isn’t always for everyone. It starts out cute and fun with animated title opening, and morphs into something that is still comedic, but also “darker.” The script has a range of emotions. From annoyance to anger, there’s lots of funny gags or tricks. Most of which the writer’s still manage in a pretty lighthearted manner.

The film has a good cast. From funnyman Ben Still to frequent comedy girl Barrymore, they make it easy to laugh out loud. Plus Eileen Essell is always hilarious in her role and really does a great job. This is one trip who makes this Duplex comedy funny. Directed by Danny DeVito, there’s not just familiar names in front of the camera but in the director’s chair too. Additionally, you’ll see James Remar and Justin Theroux, Swoosie Kurtz and Maya Rudolph.

If you don’t mind offbeat humor and fun (albeit mean) antics, you may find Duplex is a fun night in.

You can find Duplex, at publication, with Pluto TV.

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Content: There is an implication that Alex is a “molester” when Mrs. Connelly wakes up with him kneeling over her and lipstick on his face. (The scene is a comedy scene where Alex gives her mouth to mouth.) There is thematic elements (including references and a discussion with a hit man), there’s a stabbing and a fire (we see a woman lying prone in it). There is some sexual content and it’s implied someone watches a couple during sex in their living room; and a brief reference to a same sex couple if that matters when you watch something. The film is PG-13.  

SPOILER CONTENT NOTES: If film’s with themes of “death” or the idea of murder bothers you, this probably isn’t a good fit for you. The film follows a plot that involves the idea of being rid of people (like ordering a hit) and while this is all in a comedic way, I know this isn’t everyone’s favorite comedy style.

Photos: Miramax