Plot Summary: A Story of Love, Aging, and New Beginnings

The Best You Can centers on Cynthia Rand, a buttoned-up New Yorker whose life is upended by her husband’s advancing age and the arrival of Stan Olszewski (Ray Romano), a sharp but underachieving security guard. As Cynthia grapples with the realities of caregiving and her own unfulfilled desires, her budding friendship with Stan forces her to confront her priorities and rediscover what it means to live life to the fullest.

The film’s narrative unfolds with a mix of wit and warmth, exploring themes of marriage, self-discovery, and the unexpected twists that life throws our way. While the plot occasionally feels rushed, the movie’s charm lies in its authenticity and the natural performances of its cast. Bacon and Sedgwick, in particular, bring a layer of depth to their roles, making their characters’ struggles and triumphs feel genuinely relatable.

One of the standout aspects of The Best You Can is its portrayal of aging and the complexities of long-term relationships. Judd Hirsch delivers a poignant performance as Cynthia’s husband, whose dementia adds a layer of emotional weight to the story. Meanwhile, Romano’s character provides a much-needed dose of humor and levity, balancing the film’s heavier moments.

The movie’s setting—a bustling New York City—serves as the perfect backdrop for its exploration of urban loneliness and the search for connection. Whether it’s through Cynthia’s professional life as a urologist or her personal journey, the film offers a nuanced look at the challenges and rewards of growing older.

Cast and Performances: Chemistry That Shines

The cast of The Best You Can is one of its strongest assets. Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick, both as producers and leads, infuse the film with a sense of authenticity that only real-life couples can achieve. Their on-screen dynamic is both playful and tender, making their characters’ relationship feel genuine and earned.

Judd Hirsch’s portrayal of Cynthia’s husband is another highlight. His ability to convey both vulnerability and wisdom adds depth to the film, particularly in scenes that tackle the realities of aging and memory loss. Ray Romano, known for his comedic roles, surprises with a more subdued performance, bringing warmth and humanity to his character.

Supporting actors Victor Williams, Luz Ozuna, and Fawad Siddiqui round out the ensemble, each contributing memorable moments that enhance the film’s emotional resonance. The chemistry among the cast is palpable, making even the movie’s more predictable moments feel fresh and engaging.

Kevin Bacon as Doug Finkelman: Bacon’s portrayal of Doug is both charming and layered. His character’s journey—from a man content with the status quo to someone willing to take risks—is one of the film’s most compelling arcs.
Kyra Sedgwick as Cynthia Rand: Sedgwick shines as a woman torn between duty and desire. Her performance captures the frustration, love, and ultimately, the resilience of a wife and caregiver.
Judd Hirsch as Cynthia’s Husband: Hirsch’s performance is a masterclass in subtlety. He brings a quiet dignity to his role, making his character’s decline both heartbreaking and deeply human.
Ray Romano as Stan Olszewski: Romano’s comedic timing is on full display, but it’s his ability to convey Stan’s underlying loneliness that truly stands out.
Victor Williams as Jerome: Williams adds a grounded presence to the film, offering a counterpoint to the more dramatic storylines.

Critical Reception: A Charming Yet Flawed Rom-Com

The Best You Can has received generally positive reviews, with critics praising its performances and heartfelt storytelling. Many have noted that while the film doesn’t break new ground in the rom-com genre, it succeeds in delivering a warm, engaging story that resonates with audiences.

On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a respectable score, with reviewers highlighting its charm and the chemistry of its leads. However, some have criticized its script for being overly predictable and its pacing for feeling uneven at times. Despite these flaws, the consensus is that The Best You Can is a pleasant and uplifting watch, perfect for a cozy night in.

Audiences, too, have responded positively to the film. Many viewers have praised its relatable themes and the performances of its cast, particularly Bacon and Sedgwick. The movie’s blend of humor and heart has made it a standout among Netflix’s December releases, appealing to fans of both romantic comedies and dramas.

One of the most frequently mentioned strengths of the film is its ability to balance humor and pathos. Scenes that tackle serious issues like aging and caregiving are handled with sensitivity, while lighter moments provide much-needed comic relief. This balance is what makes The Best You Can such a satisfying watch.

That said, the film is not without its weaknesses. Some critics have pointed out that its plot can feel overstuffed, with certain storylines resolved too quickly or conveniently. Others have noted that the movie’s ending, while satisfying, wraps up a bit too neatly. However, these criticisms are minor compared to the film’s overall appeal.

Why The Best You Can Stands Out

In a genre often dominated by younger casts and lighter fare, The Best You Can offers something different: a rom-com centered on characters in their later years. This focus on “Third Age” romance is refreshing, providing a perspective that is rarely seen in mainstream cinema.

The film’s exploration of aging, marriage, and second chances is both timely and universal. It reminds viewers that love and self-discovery are not limited to youth, and that life’s most meaningful experiences can happen at any age. This message, combined with the film’s strong performances and heartfelt storytelling, makes it a standout in Netflix’s lineup.

Another factor that sets The Best You Can apart is its authenticity. The film’s portrayal of caregiving, in particular, rings true, offering a realistic look at the challenges and rewards of supporting a loved one through illness. This authenticity is further enhanced by the real-life chemistry of Bacon and Sedgwick, who bring a sense of lived experience to their roles.

The movie also benefits from its New York setting, which adds a layer of grit and realism to the story. Whether it’s the bustling streets of Manhattan or the quiet moments in Cynthia’s apartment, the city serves as more than just a backdrop—it’s a character in its own right, shaping the lives and relationships of the film’s protagonists.

Finally, The Best You Can is a testament to the power of friendship and connection. The relationship between Cynthia and Stan is at the heart of the film, and their journey—from strangers to confidants—is one of its most compelling aspects. Their friendship serves as a reminder that sometimes, the people who change our lives the most are the ones we least expect.

Where to Watch The Best You Can

The Best You Can is now streaming on Netflix, making it easily accessible to subscribers around the world. The film’s release on the platform has been well-timed, coinciding with the holiday season when viewers are often looking for uplifting, feel-good content.

For those who prefer physical media, the movie is also available on digital and physical formats, including DVD and Blu-ray. Its availability across multiple platforms ensures that audiences can enjoy it in whatever way they prefer.

Given its themes of love, aging, and new beginnings, The Best You Can is the perfect choice for a movie night with friends or family. Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies or simply looking for a heartfelt story, this film delivers on all fronts.

Pro Tips for Enjoying The Best You Can

Watch with a Loved One: The film’s themes of love and connection make it an ideal choice for a date night or a cozy evening with family. Its blend of humor and heart is sure to spark meaningful conversations.
Pay Attention to the Details: The Best You Can is filled with small moments that add depth to its story. From the nuances of Bacon and Sedgwick’s performances to the film’s New York setting, there’s plenty to appreciate for those who pay close attention.
Have Tissues Handy: While the movie is ultimately uplifting, it doesn’t shy away from emotional moments. Be prepared for a few tears, especially during scenes involving Judd Hirsch’s character.
Appreciate the Chemistry: The real-life relationship between Bacon and Sedgwick adds an extra layer of authenticity to the film. Watching them together is a reminder of why their on-screen partnership is so special.
Reflect on the Themes: The film’s exploration of aging, caregiving, and second chances is thought-provoking. Take some time after watching to reflect on its messages and how they might apply to your own life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is The Best You Can based on a true story?No, the film is a work of fiction. However, its themes and characters are deeply relatable, drawing on universal experiences of love, aging, and self-discovery.
Who directed The Best You Can?The film was written, produced, and directed by Michael J. Weithorn, best known for creating the hit sitcom The King of Queens.
Where was the movie filmed?The Best You Can was filmed in New York City, which serves as a central character in the story.
Is the movie suitable for all ages?While the film is generally family-friendly, it does tackle some mature themes, including aging and illness. Parents may want to preview it before watching with younger children.
How long is the movie?The runtime of The Best You Can is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.
Are there any post-credit scenes?No, the film does not include any post-credit scenes.

Conclusion

The Best You Can is a heartfelt and engaging rom-com that stands out for its authentic performances, relatable themes, and refreshing focus on older characters. While it may not be perfect, its charm, humor, and emotional depth make it a worthwhile watch for fans of the genre.

Kevin Bacon and Kyra Sedgwick’s chemistry is the film’s greatest strength, and their real-life relationship adds a layer of authenticity that is rare in Hollywood. Combined with strong supporting performances and a thoughtful exploration of love and aging, The Best You Can is a movie that will leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.

Whether you’re looking for a feel-good story to brighten your holiday season or a thoughtful exploration of life’s second acts, this Netflix release delivers on all fronts. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy a movie that reminds us all that it’s never too late to live life to the fullest.