THE DINK is a silly, predictable, coming-of-age movie for adults who are still seeking approval from their parents. It is a sweet story that has a familiar ring to it, even though its theme revolves around pickleball and tennis. It boasts a top-tier cast, which helps with all the stupid humor and schticks. It is summer escapism, along with pushing positive affirmations and life lessons that need to be addressed, no matter how old or young you may be.
The ensemble features Jake Johnson, Ed Harris, Mary Steenburgen, Aaron Chen, Chris Parnell, Patton Oswalt, and Fortune Feimster, all of them playing crazy characterizations of people we might recognize. The monologues did not wander too much. I would love to know how much was ad-libbed and still made it to the final cut. The director, Josh Greenbaum (WILL AND HARPER, BARB AND STAR GO TO VISTA DEL MAR), knows how to keep a tight, fresh rein on these huge, stellar actors. This is what makes THE DINK endearing, with heartfelt moments between the jokes.
THE DINK might not be everyone’s first choice to watch. It will appeal to a very specific movie palette. It surprised me a little that I hung in there and finished it. I am glad I did. There just aren’t enough films around for those of us who are older and hopefully wiser.
THE DINK is streaming on Apple TV.