What is the plot of the new pickleball comedy “The Dink” starring Andy Roddick and Ben Stiller?
“The Dink” is a new pickleball comedy that stars former American tennis champion Andy Roddick and actor Ben Stiller. The film revolves around the story of a washed-up tennis professional who finds himself in a desperate bid to save his club. To earn his father’s respect and save the club, he reluctantly turns to playing pickleball. The film features actor Jake Johnson in the lead role as the tennis professional.
Mary Steenburgen and Ed Harris are also part of the cast, adding depth to the storyline. According to IMDb, Stiller and Roddick will play key supporting roles. The movie is co-produced by Stiller’s production company, Red Hour Films, and Rivulet Films. Set to begin production in November, the comedy is expected to air on Hulu. This light-hearted film aims to blend humor with sports, making pickleball, a rapidly growing sport, its central theme.
How is Andy Roddick’s acting experience relevant to his role in “The Dink”?
Andy Roddick’s acting experience is relatively limited, but it brings a unique charm to his role in “The Dink.” He previously appeared in a minor role in the 2011 comedy “Just Go With It,” which starred Adam Sandler and Jennifer Aniston. Additionally, he guest-starred as himself in an episode of the fantasy sitcom “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” back in 2002. One of Roddick’s more notable forays into acting was when he hosted an episode of “Saturday Night Live” in 2003, which showcased his adaptability and comedic timing.
These experiences, though not extensive, provide Roddick with a foundation for his role in “The Dink.” Acting alongside seasoned actors like Ben Stiller, who has a rich background in both comedy and sports-themed films, will also likely bolster Roddick’s performance. Stiller’s own experience in sports comedies, notably the 2004 hit film “Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story,” adds credibility to the project. As Roddick steps into his largest acting role yet, these previous stints can only serve to enhance his contribution to the film.
What is unique about the filming location for “The Haunted Forest” directed by Keith Boynton?
The filming location for “The Haunted Forest,” directed by Keith Boynton, is particularly unique as it took place at the actual Markoffโs Haunted Forest in Dickerson/Poolesville, Maryland. This location is renowned for its elaborate and terrifying haunted attractions. Markoff’s Haunted Forest, which recently launched its 32nd season, is one of Marylandโs scariest haunts and features a mile-long trail with a series of meticulously designed horrifying sets such as a viking ship, an evil church, and a vampire village.
The authenticity of the haunted setting adds a layer of realism to the film, setting it apart from productions that rely heavily on constructed sets. Filming at an actual attraction frequented by over 30,000 visitors every October offers an immersive backdrop that enhances the film’s horror elements. It also allowed the cast and crew to experience the genuine atmosphere of a horror-themed attraction, which could contribute to the performances and overall feel of the movie. This choice of location is a testament to Boynton’s commitment to creating an authentic horror experience.
What challenges did Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin face during the filming of “A Real Pain”?
During the filming of “A Real Pain,” Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin faced several challenges, beginning with differing approaches to their craft. Eisenberg, known for his meticulous preparation, had blocked the entire film before the cast even stepped on set, which led to initial tensions. Culkin, who was more accustomed to the loose, improvised style of “Succession,” struggled with Eisenberg’s rigid structure. This difference in working styles caused friction, particularly in how scenes were staged and rehearsed.
The tension between the two actors was especially evident in the first few hours of shooting when Culkin felt the prescribed positions felt unnatural. This led to a week-long period of adjustments where Eisenberg eventually allowed Culkin more freedom to deviate from the set directions. Despite these initial hurdles, both actors ultimately learned to accommodate each other’s methods. Eisenberg came to appreciate Culkin’s unconventional approach, noting his brilliance, even if he never fully understood it. This collaborative tension, however, likely contributed to the filmโs dynamic performances.
How did Jamie Bernadette and Grayson Gwaze contribute to the horror elements in “The Haunted Forest”?
In “The Haunted Forest,” Jamie Bernadette and Grayson Gwaze play pivotal roles in amplifying the film’s horror elements. Jamie Bernadette stars as Susie, the overseer of the haunted forest, who adds an air of authority and menace to the setting. Her performance is crucial in maintaining the eerie ambiance and driving the storyline that includes real-life murders happening within the maze. Bernadetteโs experience in the genre, especially in films like “Spit on your Grave: Deja Vu,” equips her with the skills needed to excel in a horror setting.
Grayson Gwaze, portraying Zach, a high school senior, adds a layer of relatability and vulnerability that amplifies the horror when his character becomes a potential victim. His fresh presence in the horror genre allows for a nuanced performance that contrasts with Bernadette’s seasoned experience. Together, they create a dynamic where terror feels real and immersive for the audience. Filming at Markoffโs Haunted Forest further enhances their performances, as the authentic location ensures that both actors engage deeply with the atmospheric elements, making the horror more authentic and convincing for viewers.
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