The Dink Review: A New Comedy Starring Jake Johnson, Mary Steenburgen, and Ed Harris

Are you ready for a hilarious new comedy that blends sports, heart, and humour? “The Dink” is set to serve up laughs with an all-star cast and a story cantered on one of the fastest growing sports in America pickleball. This upcoming film, produced by Ben Stiller’s Red Hour Films and Rivulet Films, promises to be a must-watch for comedy fans. With Jake Johnson leading the charge and supporting roles from Mary Steenburgen, Ed Harris, and even Ben Stiller himself, this pickleball comedy is poised to win over audiences. Let’s dive into what makes “The Dink” so special and why it’s generating buzz before production even begins.

What Is “The Dink” All About?

At the heart of The Dink is Jake Johnson, who plays a once-great tennis pro whose career is now in shambles. His character, facing a club in crisis and seeking his father’s approval, must do something he swore he’d never do: play pickleball. The premise is simple, but the comedic potential is enormous. A once-great tennis player reluctantly stepping into the world of pickleball? It’s a scenario that promises to deliver not only laughs but also an underdog story with real emotional stakes.

It’s more than just another sports comedy; “The Dink” explores themes of redemption, family, and breaking personal boundaries, all wrapped in a sport that’s rising in popularity across the country.

The Star-Studded Cast

When you see names like Jake Johnson, Mary Steenburgen, Ed Harris, and Ben Stiller attached to a project, you know you’re in for something special. Each of these actors brings their own unique charm and talent to the table, making The Dink a comedy to watch out for.

Jake Johnson as the Washed-Up Pro

Jake Johnson, who many may recognize from his role in New Girl or his recent directorial debut Self Reliance, is stepping into the shoes of a former tennis star. His character is far from his former glory, and the script positions him as the comedic heart of the story. Johnson has a knack for playing relatable characters who feel both real and hilarious. His ability to balance sarcasm with sincerity is perfect for a role that requires both humour and a deeper emotional arc.

Mary Steenburgen and Ed Harris

Joining Johnson are Mary Steenburgen and Ed Harris, two veterans of the big screen who are sure to bring gravitas and wit to the film. Steenburgen, known for her roles in films like Step Brothers and The Proposal, has a comedic timing that will complement the tone of the movie. Ed Harris, often known for his dramatic roles, will bring something fresh and exciting to this comedy. The dynamic between these established stars and Johnson is expected to elevate the film beyond a simple comedy, adding layers of depth and personality to the characters.

Ben Stiller and Andy Roddick in Supporting Roles

Ben Stiller isn’t just producing the film he’s also appearing in it, along with former tennis champion Andy Roddick. While their roles are being kept under wraps, the inclusion of Stiller adds another layer of humour and credibility to the film. Stiller has a history of success with sports comedies, dating back to Dodgeball, and it’s exciting to see him involved both in front of and behind the camera. Andy Roddick’s appearance also adds a fun, meta element to the story, as a real-life tennis pro stepping into a pickleball comedy.

The Creative Team Behind the Scenes

Behind the camera, The Dink boasts some impressive talent as well. Directed by Josh Greenbaum, known for films like Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar and his upcoming documentary Will & Harper, the film is in capable hands. Greenbaum has a track record of bringing fresh comedic perspectives to the screen, and The Dink is sure to benefit from his unique vision.

The screenplay is written by Sean Clements, who is making his feature film debut as a screenwriter. Clements has previously worked on television shows like Workaholics and Kevin Can Fk Himself, and his experience in writing sharp, witty dialogue will be key to making The Dink stand out in the crowded comedy landscape.

The Growing Popularity of Pickleball: A Sport on the Rise

Pickleball has been taking the country by storm in recent years, and it’s no surprise that it’s found its way into the world of film. For those unfamiliar with the sport, pickleball is a mashup of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, played with paddles and a wiffle ball on a smaller court. It’s easy to learn, fast-paced, and incredibly fun, which has led to its rapid growth in popularity across all age groups.

But why pickleball? The sport’s accessibility and the fact that it can be played casually or competitively makes it the perfect backdrop for a comedy. It’s the ideal metaphor for the film’s main character: something he never thought he’d take seriously, but a challenge that could reignite his passion for life and sport.

A Comedy That Appeals to More Than Just Sports Fans

While The Dink may centre on a specific sport, you don’t have to be a pickleball enthusiast to enjoy the film. The universal themes of redemption, family, and personal growth make it a story that resonates with anyone. At its core, this movie is about a man trying to find his way in the world again, and who can’t relate to that?

Sports comedies have a way of transcending their subject matter when done right, and The Dink has all the ingredients to do just that. Think of movies like The Bad News Bears or Dodgeball they’re not just about the sports themselves but about the people playing them, their personal journeys, and the humour that arises from unlikely situations.

Why The Dink Will Stand Out

There’s no shortage of comedies these days, but The Dink has a few unique qualities that make it stand out. First, the combination of seasoned comedic actors and a rising star like Jake Johnson guarantees a strong performance across the board. Each actor brings something different, creating a cast that has both star power and comedic chops.

Second, the film’s subject matter is both timely and fresh. Pickleball hasn’t been heavily featured in mainstream films yet, and its growing popularity makes it a smart choice for a setting. It’s a sport that’s relatable to many, whether you play it casually or compete regularly, and it brings a quirky, fun energy to the movie.

Finally, the creative team behind the film is stacked with talent. From director Josh Greenbaum to writer Sean Clements, the people shaping The Dink have the experience and skill to turn this into more than just another sports comedy. With a solid script, strong direction, and an incredible cast, The Dink is well-positioned to become a hit when it lands in theatres.

Get ready for The Dink, a comedy that combines heart, humour, and a sport you didn’t know you needed to care about. With a standout cast, an engaging story, and the growing popularity of pickleball as a backdrop, this film is sure to be a winner. Whether you’re a fan of sports comedies, a pickleball player yourself, or just someone who loves a good underdog story, The Dink is a film you won’t want to miss. Stay tuned for its release, and prepare for some serious laughs!