If you’re looking for a heartwarming movie that delivers equal parts laughter and tears, then you need to check out “The Fundamentals of Caring”, a Netflix original that’s quickly become a fan favorite. This film stars Paul Rudd as Ben, a retired writer struggling to find his place in the world after suffering a tragic loss. When he signs up to become a caregiver to a disabled teenager named Trevor, played by Craig Roberts, he discovers that what he thought was a dead-end job might just be the start of his new life.
Directed by Rob Burnett and based on the novel by Jonathan Evison, “The Fundamentals of Caring” perfectly captures the ups and downs of human connection, and teaches us that even the most broken people can find healing through friendship. But this movie isn’t just some sappy drama – it’s also packed with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, courtesy of Rudd’s sarcastic wit and Roberts’ dry delivery. It’s the kind of film that will have you wiping away tears one moment and chuckling the next.
So if you want to watch a movie that will make you feel all the feelings, then “The Fundamentals of Caring” is the perfect choice. With a talented cast, a heartfelt story, and plenty of humor, this Netflix original is sure to become a classic that you’ll want to revisit again and again. So grab some tissues, get cozy on the couch, and let this movie take you on a journey that’s as touching as it is entertaining.
Netflix Original Series
Netflix has become a powerhouse in the entertainment industry, offering a wide range of original programming that has captivated audiences worldwide. One of the most notable titles in its library is the movie adaptation of Jonathan Evison’s novel, The Fundamentals of Caring.
The Fundamentals of Caring is a comedy-drama film that premiered on Netflix in 2016. The story follows Ben, a retired writer who decides to become a caregiver after experiencing a personal tragedy. He is assigned to take care of Trevor, a teenage boy with muscular dystrophy who loves to explore the world through maps. Ben and Trevor embark on a road trip together, picking up a few quirky side characters along the way.
- The movie stars Paul Rudd as Ben, Craig Roberts as Trevor, and Selena Gomez as Dot, a hitchhiking runaway they pick up on their journey. The performances are charming and heartfelt, making it easy to root for this eclectic bunch of characters.
- The Fundamentals of Caring is a coming-of-age story that deftly balances humor and emotional depth. It deals with heavy topics like grief and disability, but does so with a light touch that never feels heavy-handed.
- The movie was directed by Rob Burnett, best known as the executive producer of The Late Show with David Letterman. Burnett brings a keen eye for character-driven storytelling to The Fundamentals of Caring, crafting a movie that feels both authentic and heartwarming.
The Fundamentals of Caring has received positive reviews from critics and audiences alike, with many praising its honest portrayal of disability and its moving message of friendship and self-discovery. It’s a standout title in Netflix’s original programming lineup, and a must-watch for anyone in need of a feel-good movie that will make them laugh and cry in equal measure.
| Director | Rob Burnett |
|---|---|
| Writer | Rob Burnett |
| Starring | Paul Rudd, Craig Roberts, Selena Gomez |
| Release date | June 24, 2016 (Netflix) |
If you haven’t seen The Fundamentals of Caring yet, it’s definitely worth adding to your Netflix queue. It’s a heartwarming and uplifting movie that proves the power of human connection and the beauty of life’s unexpected journeys.
Streaming Platforms
One of the greatest benefits of living in the digital age is having access to a plethora of entertainment options at our fingertips. Streaming platforms like Netflix have revolutionized the way we consume media, offering a vast selection of TV shows and movies that are easily accessible for a monthly subscription fee. The rise of these platforms has changed the entertainment industry forever, paving the way for new and exciting content to reach audiences all over the world.
- Netflix: As the pioneer of the streaming industry, Netflix is the most well-known platform and boasts a massive library of original content. From award-winning series like “Stranger Things” to critically acclaimed movies like “The Irishman,” Netflix has something for everyone.
- Amazon Prime Video: An add-on to Amazon Prime, this streaming platform offers a vast selection of movies and TV shows, including original content like “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” and “The Boys.”
- Hulu: With a focus on TV shows, Hulu provides instant access to current episodes of popular series like “This Is Us” and “The Handmaid’s Tale,” as well as classic movies and original content.
These platforms have become more than just a way to watch TV shows and movies – they have become cultural phenomenons. Binge-watching has become a popular pastime, and social media has turned these shows into worldwide conversations. The availability and convenience of streaming platforms have forever changed the way we consume media and interact with it.
| Streaming Platform | Monthly Subscription Fee | Original Content |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix | $8.99 – $17.99 | Yes |
| Amazon Prime Video | $8.99 (with Amazon Prime) | Yes |
| Hulu | $5.99 – $11.99 | Yes |
No longer do we have to wait until a certain day and time to watch our favorite TV shows – we can now watch them whenever, and wherever, we want. The ability to stream content has provided a level of freedom and flexibility that we never had before. As technology continues to advance, it will be exciting to see what new platforms emerge and what content they will offer.
Adaptation from a Book
The Fundamentals of Caring is a heartwarming comedy-drama film that is adapted from a book of the same name written by Jonathan Evison. Evison’s novel was published in 2012 and was well-received by both critics and readers, winning the Washington State Book Award and being named a New York Times Bestseller. The adaptation from book to film was done by writer-director Rob Burnett and stars Paul Rudd and Craig Roberts.
- While the movie remains faithful to the spirit of the book, some changes have been made to the plot and characters to make it more suitable for the film adaptation.
- In the book, Ben’s daughter is actually alive and living with her mother, while in the film, she has passed away, which gives Ben’s character a more significant emotional arc.
- Another significant difference between the book and the film is that the film is set in the United States, while the book takes place in Canada.
Despite these changes, the film retains the heart and humor of the book, and both are equally worth experiencing. The adaptation from book to film is never an easy feat, but in the case of The Fundamentals of Caring, it was done with care and attention to detail.
If you enjoyed the film, we highly recommend checking out the book to gain a deeper understanding of the characters and themes. Conversely, if you read the book first, the film provides a fantastic visual representation of the story and characters.
Paul Rudd as a Lead
Paul Rudd takes the lead role in the Netflix original movie, “The Fundamentals of Caring.” Rudd plays the part of Ben, a retired writer, and depressed husband who is struggling to come to terms with the breakup of his marriage. He takes a course in caregiving to help him get over his own issues, and this is where he meets Trevor, played by Craig Roberts.
- Rudd’s Performance: Rudd delivers a convincing and engaging performance in the role of Ben. He plays the role with a depth and sensitivity that makes the character relatable to the audience.
- Chemistry with Craig Roberts: The chemistry between Rudd and Roberts is perfect. They complement each other’s characters, resulting in a memorable and heartwarming on-screen partnership.
- Depth of Character: Rudd’s portrayal of Ben is full of nuance. He balances the emotional weight of the character with an understated sense of humor.
Overall, Rudd’s performance is the standout element of “The Fundamentals of Caring.” His character brings a sense of gravitas to the film that elevates it above your average indie movie.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Engaging and convincing performance | Some may find the character predictable |
| Brings emotional depth to the film | Not suitable for viewers who are looking for lighthearted entertainment |
| Perfect chemistry with Craig Roberts |
If you’re looking for a film that combines heartwarming moments with humor and a touch of drama, “The Fundamentals of Caring” is a perfect choice. Paul Rudd’s performance as Ben elevates the movie to another level while providing the audience with a character that is both relatable and endearing.
The Disability Representation in the Film
The Netflix original film, The Fundamentals of Caring, is a heartwarming story about a caregiver, Ben, and his client, Trevor, a teenager with muscular dystrophy. The film is an excellent portrayal of the disability community and shines a light on the struggles and triumphs of those living with disabilities.
- Authentic Representation: The film’s writers and director worked hard to ensure that the representation of disability was authentic. They consulted with multiple disability rights organizations to ensure the portrayal of disability was accurate and sensitive.
- Challenging stereotypes: The film challenges the stereotypes that are often associated with disability. Trevor, the main character, is not portrayed as a helpless victim or inspiration for others. Instead, he is depicted as a complex person with his own interests, desires, and challenges.
- Empowering message: The film delivers an empowering message that people with disabilities can live fulfilling lives despite their challenges. The film shows that with the right support and attitude, individuals with disabilities can achieve their goals and dreams.
The film also showcases the importance of empathy, kindness, and human connection. Disability can be a isolating experience, and the film shows the power of building meaningful relationships to combat feelings of loneliness. The relationship between Ben and Trevor in the film is an excellent example of this.
Overall, The Fundamentals of Caring is a must-watch for anyone looking for an authentic and empowering representation of disability in media.
Road Trip Films
One of the subplots in the Netflix Original “The Fundamentals of Caring” is the classic road trip genre. The film features a road trip consisting of a disabled man named Trevor, his caregiver Ben, and a young hitchhiker named Dot. There’s something incredibly captivating about watching a journey on the big screen, with each character facing their own challenges and personal growth along the way.
- Adventure: Road trip films are all about the journey, not the destination. The sense of adventure and exploration is what makes them so endearing to audiences. In “The Fundamentals of Caring,” the trio embarks on a road trip to see the world’s deepest pit. As they travel, they discover more about themselves and each other.
- Bonding: Being in a confined space for an extended period forces characters to interact with one another. It’s an opportunity for them to build relationships and connect on a deeper level. The road trip in “The Fundamentals of Caring” is a perfect example of how characters can learn to rely on each other and develop lasting bonds.
- Humor: Road trip films are often lighthearted and filled with comedic moments. “The Fundamentals of Caring” is no exception, with witty banter and humorous mishaps along the way. These moments provide a break from the more serious aspects of the story and keep the audience engaged.
Many road trip films also share specific characteristics, like the use of a map, the search for a specific location or object, and the progression of time as the journey plays out. These common elements create a formula that has proven to be successful time and time again with audiences.
| Iconic Road Trip Films | Year of Release |
|---|---|
| Little Miss Sunshine | 2006 |
| Thelma & Louise | 1991 |
| The Motorcycle Diaries | 2004 |
| Sideways | 2004 |
| Dumb and Dumber | 1994 |
Whether it’s a group of friends on a quest to get to a wedding on time or a father-son duo traveling the country in a classic car, road trip films have the power to connect with audiences on an emotional level. In “The Fundamentals of Caring,” the road trip serves as a backdrop for a heartwarming story of friendship, self-discovery, and second chances.
Themes of Grief and Loss
The Netflix original movie, “The Fundamentals of Caring,” explores deep themes of grief and loss that are sure to tug at your heartstrings. The film follows Ben, a retired writer, who is struggling to come to terms with the loss of his young son. Ben gets a job as a caregiver to Trevor, a teenager with muscular dystrophy, and the two embark on a road trip that forces them to confront their emotional baggage.
- The Pain of Losing a Child: Ben’s grief over the death of his son is palpable throughout the movie. He struggles with survivor’s guilt and is haunted by memories of his child. The film shows how losing a child is a unique kind of pain that can be hard to overcome.
- The Struggle to Accept Disability: Trevor’s muscular dystrophy has left him confined to a wheelchair, and he has a hard time accepting his disability. Like many people with disabilities, Trevor is frustrated by the limitations it places on him and dreams of a different life. The film does an excellent job of portraying the challenges faced by people with disabilities and the emotional toll it can take.
- The Importance of Connection: For both Ben and Trevor, their road trip is a chance to connect with another person in a meaningful way. The film shows how human connection can be a source of comfort and healing in times of grief.
However, the film not only discusses the themes of grief and loss through its plot but through its overall mood and atmosphere as well. Scenes of dark humor intermixed with deeply emotional moments create a kind of emotional whiplash that leaves the viewer feeling raw and vulnerable.
The movie also includes a touching musical score by Ryan Miller that adds to the emotional impact of the story. Miller’s score includes both melancholic melodies and more upbeat and hopeful themes that capture the contradictions of grief and loss.
| Grief and Loss experiences | Ways of coping with Grief and Loss |
|---|---|
| Death of a loved one | Talking to someone about their feeling, Finding closure through remembrance |
| End of a relationship | Reliance on friends and family, Developing a new routine and interests |
| Disability diagnosis | Facing their emotions, Accepting assistance and support |
The themes of grief and loss are expertly woven into the plot and mood of “The Fundamentals of Caring,” making it a film that is sure to leave a lasting impact on those who watch it.
Frequently Asked Questions about Fundamentals of Caring, a Netflix Original
1. What is Fundamentals of Caring about?
Fundamentals of Caring is a Netflix Original movie that follows the story of a caregiver who takes on a new job looking after a teenager with muscular dystrophy. Together, they embark on a road trip that takes them on a life-changing adventure.
2. Is Fundamentals of Caring based on a book?
Yes, Fundamentals of Caring is based on the novel “The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving” by Jonathan Evison.
3. Who stars in Fundamentals of Caring?
The movie stars Paul Rudd as the caregiver, Craig Roberts as the teenager with muscular dystrophy, Selena Gomez as a hitchhiker they pick up along the way, and Jennifer Ehle as Craig’s estranged wife.
4. Is Fundamentals of Caring a comedy or a drama?
The movie is a blend of both comedy and drama, with heartfelt moments and plenty of laughs.
5. What age rating does Fundamentals of Caring have?
The movie is rated TV-MA, meaning it may not be suitable for viewers under the age of 17 due to adult themes, language, and violence.
6. Can I watch Fundamentals of Caring on Netflix?
Yes, Fundamentals of Caring is a Netflix Original movie and is available to stream on the platform.
Closing: Thanks for Reading!
We hope these FAQs about Fundamentals of Caring, a Netflix Original, have helped you learn more about this heartwarming film. Whether you’re in the mood for a laugh or a good cry, this movie has it all. So grab some popcorn, snuggle up on the couch, and enjoy Fundamentals of Caring. Thank you for reading, and we hope to see you again soon!