A gem where connections are found in unlikely places. A masterclass of comedy about finding meaning after loss. The Baltimorons is a Christmas miracle from the mind of Jay Duplass. Co-written by Michael Strassner who is also the lead In the film. The Baltimorons relies upon the formulaic approach involving someone trying to grieve and cope with disconnect on Christmas Eve. I have long admired Duplass. In this film, he showcases the ability to thrive in spite of what had been lost. The Baltimorons is a film I adore for its focus on someone trying to cope with his many frustrations while also trying to bring happiness to others.

This brilliant work-of-art takes place in Baltimore. The main character is Cliff who has a life filled with many struggles. He is dealing with sobriety, past issues with depression, while also trying to deal with the fact that his career in sketch comedy writing fell apart. Cliff is on the way to spend Christmas Eve with his fiancé Brittany (Olivia Luccardi), and her family. However, a dental emergency brings Cliff to the dentist. He meets Didi (Liz Larsen). Cliff overhears that Didi is having issues of her own, and after the dentist’s appointment, he talks her into going on many Christmas Eve adventures. During their time together they engage in conversations about life which lead to an interesting journey and mutual feelings of connection. The chemistry between Strassner and Larsen makes the film a success. Both characters are dealing with a loss of touch and wanting to feel warmth again.

Didi is a single, unhappy mom and Cliff is a depressed, frustrated soul. Duplass is amazing at creating this dynamic duo in an unlikely place at an unlikely time. He brings cinematic wonders exploring humanistic values to The Baltimorons. The conversations between the two are spot-on. The frustrations they encounter on their many adventures are witty and goofy. Duplass is so skilled at pulling off scenes of a mischievous nature. His talents allow him to transform the disconnect many people experience during the holidays into holiday cheer in The Baltimorons.

Throughout the unexpected trips which occur in The Baltimorons, the brilliant scenes warmed my heart and made me feel sentimental. The movie makes you think about how good it feels to have someone looking out for you…even if it is for just a few moments. The Baltimorons is by far one of the most cheerful, creative, and positive films I have seen this year. Although there are some elements which are for mature audiences, the theme of self-acceptance and working through problems shines deeply in The Baltimorons.

Duplass does not disappoint and neither does Strassner who steals the film. His persistence playing someone who is jumping over various hurdles makes viewers cheer for him as if he were working his way up to the finish line. The ultimate “win” would be for him to take advantage of the positivity that his new friend has shared with him and hope for it to turn into something fanciful. Four out of four stars for The Baltimorons.