‘Palm Springs’ Is a Hilarious Time-Bending Comedy
Go into this Andy Samberg comedy blind–trust us.
Now available to stream on Hulu, Palm Springs (theatrical distribution from Neon) is one of those movies that’s better going into blind. Starting with Nyles (Andy Samberg) as he shuffles through a Palm Springs rental on the day of a friend’s wedding with apathetic energy, you’ll likely feel as if you might’ve missed something (don’t worry, you haven’t).
But soon enough, with the unexpected introduction of Sarah, who throws Nyles’ day – and world – out of wack, you’re now settled in for an all-out, joyous, and hilarious comedy from the wacky, deranged mind of The Lonely Island (Popstar).
The top-billed pairing of Andy Samberg as the beer-cracking Nyles and Cristin Milioti as manic and insecure Sarah make for a delightful onscreen duo, whose chemistry ranges from their having to navigate insane waters together to finding a real romantic connection as well.
And beyond the film’s “every day’s the same” gimmick – which is executed wonderfully and earns real laughs (with J.K. Simmons getting in on the fun too) – there’s also a surprisingly thoughtful and unexpected heart that the film derives its energy from, that of each character’s personal insecurities and existential dread that ranges from love, mortality and our place in the universe.
Brought to the screen with applause-worthy comedic chops as well as deft emotional hand by screenwriter Andy Siara and director Max Barkabow (his first feature!), check out this Sundance entry (and nominee for Grand Jury Prize) instantly before you’ll want to watch it again.
‘Palm Springs’ is now available to stream on Hulu.
Ryan Rojas
Ryan is the editorial manager of Cinemacy, which he co-runs with his older sister, Morgan. Ryan is a member of the Hollywood Critics Association. Ryan's favorite films include 2001: A Space Odyssey, The Social Network, and The Master.