Quick Take: I wanted to like this film, I really did, but the biggest hurdle in giving The Argument anything other than a mediocre review is the fact that the characters just aren’t likable.

Director Robert Schwartzman’s latest indie film is an offbeat comedy about pride and poor communication, but unfortunately, The Argument plays more like a slightly uncomfortable improv show. I wanted to like this film, I really did, but the biggest hurdle in giving The Argument anything other than a mediocre review is the fact that the characters just aren’t likable. And when we’re stuck with these characters in one room for the duration of a film, they have to be likable.

The Argument is a humble production that tells the story of how Jack (Dan Fogler) and his girlfriend, Lisa (Emma Bell) get into a petty argument during a night in with some friends. Jack and Lisa have different recollections of who is in the wrong, and because they can’t just be adults and settle a disagreement like grown-ups, they insist that they replay the night over, and over, and over again with their friends in hopes that they will suddenly realize who was right. Thank goodness someone in the group literally has a photographic memory and could just tell us who was “right,” but that is never utilized for reasons unknown.

There are some standout performances, notably from Danny Pudi and Maggie Q, but the rest of the cast plays characters that are too emotionally unintelligent to be believable or likable. Which is a shame, because the potential is there. The Argument may not be his best, but if you’re in the mood for a Schwartzman lighthearted comedy, may I recommend his directorial debut Dreamland.

Distributed by Gravitas Ventures, The Argument is now available to rent on VOD.