The Baltimorons (2025) - Film Review

      The Baltimorons, 2025.

      Directed by Jay Duplass.

      Featuring Michael Strassner, Liz Larson, Olivia Luccardi, Jessie Cohen, Brian Mendes, Marina Erickson, Stacy Caspari, Morgan Dixon, Zoe Strassner, Drew Limon, Rob Phoenix, Chris Strassner, David Strassner, and Mary Catherine Garrison.

      SYNOPSIS:

      On Christmas Eve, a man newly committed to sobriety faces a dental crisis that unexpectedly sparks a romance with his older dentist, leading them on an explorative journey through Baltimore. Sometimes, excruciating pain and what seems like the worst day can transform into moments of profound clarity.

      Cliff, a thirty-something portrayed by co-writer and star Michael Strassner as an endearing, goofy, and relatable character, is a six-month sober recovering alcoholic grappling with the idea of revisiting his passion for sketch comedy, a scene he was involved in with a group known as the Baltimorons. His texts to a stand-up comedian friend reveal his desire to return.

      However, his fiancée (Olivia Luccardi) is understandably concerned that re-entering that world could trigger a relapse, especially given his recent struggles with sobriety following a suicide attempt—a real-life incident for Michael Strassner, presented in a way that blends dark humor with a touching narrative.

      The central theme in co-writer/director Jay Duplass's feature-length directorial debut, The Baltimorons, revolves around whether Cliff believes he’s capable of navigating his old passions and if he can muster the courage to pursue them. He feels unfulfilled in his personal life, facing difficulties in his relationship, having perhaps rushed into a long-term commitment and family plans that he’s uncertain about. Occasionally, he mistakenly calls his fiancée "girlfriend," a telling slip that underscores his inner conflict.

      In a comical mishap while attempting to enter his fiancée's family's home for Christmas Eve dinner, Cliff accidentally injures his tooth and urgently needs dental help. Fortunately, he finds Didi (Liz Larsen), a charming and emotionally complex dentist who is a bit older and available during the holidays, possibly seeking an escape from her own family troubles. Didi's ex-husband has moved on to a younger partner, and her daughter has just informed her that they recently married at a courthouse and invited her to a celebration later on.

      With Michael Strassner delivering hilarious physical comedy reminiscent of a young John Belushi, it quickly becomes clear that this film is something special. Strassner and Jay Duplass craft an entertaining dental appointment scene in which humor serves to deepen our understanding of the characters. At times, Cliff’s attempts to guess the names of Didi’s relatives come across as nonsensical but add to the comedy.

      Cliff's struggles and determination lead him and Didi on an adventure through Baltimore filled with humorous and poignant moments, compelling both to confront their pasts and re-evaluate their current desires, giving the film a Dickensian touch. Despite their age difference, romance blossoms, but the film also delves into their personal journeys, lending it an authentic and thoughtful tone.

      A delightful mix of comedic misadventures, a tender May/December romance, and a sincere exploration of mental health and the quest for personal satisfaction, The Baltimorons thoughtfully examines alcoholism and its temptations, showcasing how the things that bring us joy can often lie close to self-destructive habits. This film is anything but foolish; it’s deep and well-crafted, featuring a standout laugh-out-loud moment involving the Baltimore Ravens, along with a genuine love for the city.

      Flickering Myth Rating – Film: ★ ★ ★ ★ / Movie: ★ ★ ★ ★

      Robert Kojder is a member of the Chicago Film Critics Association, Critics Choice Association, and Online Film Critics Society. He serves as the Flickering Myth Reviews Editor. Check here for new reviews and follow me on BlueSky or Letterboxd.