Swan Song (2021 Todd Stephens film)

What works about “Swan” isn’t (just) that the jokes are funny and the emotional moments work. Plenty of forgettable dramedies have funny scenes and tearjerking moments. “Song”, however, segments these so they’re never working in competition. Pat trying to hitchhike with a sign that reads “FREE BEAUTY TIPS” is played for comedy, but when, say, it comes time to talk about his departed partner and the discarded remnants of his life, Stephens gives the material the time and respect it deserves and never undercuts this material by exiting with a joke. It’s a consideration that puts it above most films.

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