Spoiler Alert
review by Bobby Blakey
Jim Parsons made a name for himself as the awkward Sheldon on The Big Bang Theory, but now he is teaming up with The Big Sick and Lovebirds director Michael Showalter for the film Spoiler Alert based on Michael Ausiello’s best-selling memoir “Spoiler Alert: The Hero Dies,” but does it manage to bring the set to life for this love story or will it not be worth spoiling?
Spoiler Alert follows a heartwarming, funny and life-affirming story of how Michael and Kit’s relationship is transformed and deepened when one of them falls ill. Alongside Parsons the film co-stars Ben Aldridge, Bill Irwin and Sally Field.
All I knew going into this film was a single trailer and obsession with Smurfs so I was sold. What I didn’t realize was how heavy it was going to be coupled with some creative storytelling to make it stand out as something special. We have seen stories like this numerous times, but there is just something about it that stands out.
I love seeing Parsons step out of what we have been used to seeing him and he is so great here. He brings an awkward likability to the role that has your rooting for him to find love. His chemistry with Aldridge is excellent making you fully by into their relationship which is the most important aspect of the film. The journey of these two stands out telling a story that is believable and relatable as opposed to the usual Hollywood fare.
They have intercut elements of the back story using sitcom style imagery through Parsons narration that helps the film find a fun and unique element to make it something different as we navigate their ups and downs. I will say I was bummed the Smurf obsession was only a
small part of the film but still funny. As a collector of thigs myself Iunderstood both his issue and the reaction of others and been there myself. This isn’t a main part of the story, but an element that does open up something else in their relationship.
As the story moves along we get the good with the bad as it pulls at your heart strings and tickles your funny bone from beginning to end. This film worked way better than I thought it might and deals with the subject matter really well despite it being something that might hit some harder than others.
I hope Parsons takes on more of these kinds of roles in the future because he really got a chance to shine and show more range than he has previously and I am here for it. Check out Spoiler Alert in theaters and now streaming on Peacock.