The Peanut Butter Falcon Review

A self-proclaimed Mark Twain style fable, the new film The Peanut Butter Falcon by the writing/directing duo of Tyler Nilson and Michael Schwartz is exactly that. Although the film trades in an intricate and multifaceted narrative for something far more modest, the result is a wonderfully heartfelt movie that is brought to life by the driven performances of Shia LaBeouf, Dakota Johnson, and the remarkably entertaining Zack Gottsagen. The simplicity of the character's journey is made much more courageous due to Nilson and Schwartz’s storybook approach to telling it, resulting in a movie that’s delightful despite its predictability.

The Peanut Butter Falcon tells the story of Zak, a young man with Down syndrome who runs away from the nursing home he stays at so he can follow his dream of attending a wrestling school run by his favorite wrestler, The Salt Water Redneck. It’s not long for unforeseen events on Zak’s journey to pair him with a troubled small-time outlaw named Tyler. The unlikely duo ends up becoming allies and friends, helping one another try and achieve the goals that will help each other see more in themselves. But the two find out that some things catch up to you no matter how much you run.

The filmmaking throughout is noticeably thoughtful and far from bland, a standout being the cinematography by Nigel Bluck, which creates a complimenting tone to the various swamps and shores of North Carolina. But the real driving force of the film is its characters, who are each delectably written and easy to root for. The chemistry and liability of the main protagonists help add emotional layers to some of the film's most radiant and sentimental moments.

The Peanut Butter Falcon offers scenes populated with elements of comedy, action, and drama, but is at its strongest when it’s focused on the growth in friendship and comradery between Zak and Tyler. While the movie is consistently entertaining throughout its entire runtime, The Peanut Butter Falcon does seem to peak well before its conclusion, ultimately producing a third act that feels rushed and unrewarding.

Though straightforward and somewhat linear, the warm and thoughtful characters partnered with the visually enjoyable execution helps make The Peanut Butter Falcon a feelgood and wholesome adventure that stays compelling despite a conclusion that feels hastily put together.

The caring and comedic performances power the heartwarming story of The Peanut Butter Falcon through a wonderfully quirky and sensitive journey.

Produced By: Roadside Attractions
Runtime: 93 minutes
Rating: PG-13