Poolman on Hulu: Chris Pine’s noir-comedy adventure blends mystery and laughs

Poolman is a 2023 movie that just started streaming on Hulu. Chris Pine, of Wonder Woman and Star Trek fame, stars in and directs this feature. It has comedy, mystery, and adventure, making it a must-see for those who enjoy a fun ride.

The storyline

Poolman follows Darren Barrenman, a Los Angeles pool cleaner with dreams that far exceed his current situation, but his life takes an unexpected turn when he stumbles upon what he thinks is a conspiracy about the local water supply.

As Darren investigates his theory, he meets many interesting characters played by Danny DeVito, Annette Bening, and others. There are plenty of twists and funny moments that turn Danny’s life into an old-fashioned noir.

Pine’s dual role as actor and director

Chris Pine handles the dual role of actor and director well, showcasing his creativity and ambition, especially since his character in this film is very different from the action hero roles he is most famous for.

Directing himself also adds complexity to the role as he must balance his performance with the needs of the project and crew, a hard task for even the most accomplished actors. However, his relaxed, quirky portrayal of Darren shows he’s more than up to the task.

The cast and performances

The strong cast of Danny DeVitto, Annette Bening, and others add depth and humor to the film, which will keep you laughing and watching until the end and the humor Chris brings to the film will make you look for him in other comedies.

Bening brings her characteristic wit to her role, while DeVito’s comic timing infuses the story with an energy that perfectly complements Pine’s offbeat style. Their interactions create a dynamic and memorable viewing experience, as each character brings something unexpected to the plot.

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Visual style and cinematic influences

Poolman's visual style is a playful homage to classic noir. A sunlit Los Angeles serves as the ironic backdrop for Darren’s dark, if somewhat ridiculous, investigation. The film uses clever cinematography to capture the contrast between the bright, sprawling cityscape and the shadowy world of hidden agendas.

Pine’s direction shows influences from classic detective films, but the addition of humor and visual quirk gives the film a distinctive look, with a color palette and framing choices that highlight Darren’s journey from mundane pool cleaner to unexpected “detective.”

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