Detailed Summary
Introduction: Meeting the Characters
The movie introduces us to two very different men: Phillip Lacasse (played by Bryan Cranston), a wealthy paraplegic who has lost his zest for life, and Dell Scott (played by Kevin Hart), an unemployed ex-convict trying to make ends meet. The contrast in their personalities and lifestyles is immediately apparent, but they cross paths when Dell shows up for an interview as Phillip’s caregiver, despite having no qualifications.
Phillip Hires Dell
Against the expectations of his assistant Yvonne (played by Nicole Kidman), Phillip hires Dell. He appreciates Dell’s honesty and unpolished approach, which is refreshing compared to the overly formal care he’s used to. This sets up the core of the story—a friendship born from necessity but blossoming into something much more meaningful.
Dell’s Struggles and Growth
As Dell becomes more involved in Phillip’s life, the film also explores his personal challenges. He’s struggling to reconnect with his estranged son, and his financial difficulties create constant tension. Through his work with Phillip, Dell learns responsibility and starts to see beyond his own struggles, which leads to moments of both humor and tenderness.
Phillip and Dell’s Unlikely Bond
Throughout the movie, Dell helps Phillip rediscover his passion for life, while Phillip provides Dell with opportunities and a sense of purpose. The movie takes the audience through a series of moments where the two men bond over experiences like joyrides in sports cars and attending extravagant art auctions. This light-heartedness is balanced with the emotional depth of both characters coming to terms with their own emotional pain.
The Tension Builds
As Dell starts to settle into his role, he faces personal demons, including his troubled relationship with his ex and the challenges of proving to his son that he can be a responsible father. Meanwhile, Phillip wrestles with feelings of inadequacy due to his disability and doubts about his self-worth. The tension between the characters escalates when Dell inadvertently puts Phillip in a situation that reminds him of his limitations.
The Movie’s Climax
The breaking point comes when Dell makes a mistake that leads to a rift between the two. Phillip, feeling abandoned and betrayed, withdraws into his depression. Dell, realizing the impact he’s had on Phillip’s life, reflects on his own growth and the importance of their bond.
Movie Ending
In the final act, Dell makes a heartfelt effort to repair his friendship with Phillip. The film closes on a hopeful note, with Phillip finding joy in life again and Dell taking steps toward becoming a better father and man. Their friendship, though unconventional, proves to be transformative for both of them.
Are There Post-Credits Scenes?
There are no post-credits scenes in Untouchable (2017), leaving the ending as a resolution to the characters’ personal journeys.
Type of Movie
Untouchable (2017) is a comedy-drama with elements of inspiration and feel-good sentiment. It offers humor through its odd-couple dynamic but also delves into more profound themes of personal growth, redemption, and human connection.
Cast
- Kevin Hart as Dell Scott
- Bryan Cranston as Phillip Lacasse
- Nicole Kidman as Yvonne Pendleton
- Golshifteh Farahani as Maggie
- Aja Naomi King as Latrice (Dell’s ex)
- Tate Donovan as Carter Locke
Film Music and Composer
The film’s score was composed by Rob Simonsen, whose work blends orchestral and electronic elements to reflect the emotional depth of the characters’ journeys. The music helps underscore both the film’s lighter comedic moments and its more heartfelt scenes.
Filming Locations
The movie was filmed primarily in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and New York City. These urban locations emphasize the contrasting worlds of Phillip’s luxurious lifestyle and Dell’s more down-to-earth, gritty existence. Philadelphia’s iconic landmarks, such as the Philadelphia Museum of Art, also make appearances in some key scenes.
Awards and Nominations
Untouchable did not receive major award nominations but was appreciated for its performances, especially Kevin Hart’s more serious turn and Bryan Cranston’s portrayal of a man grappling with both physical and emotional challenges. It received moderate attention at smaller festivals for its performances and direction.
Behind the Scenes Insights
- Kevin Hart described this film as a pivotal moment in his career, as it marked one of his first serious dramatic roles.
- The casting of Bryan Cranston as a paraplegic sparked some controversy, with some questioning why a disabled actor wasn’t cast.
- During filming, Cranston spent hours in a wheelchair to better understand Phillip’s experience and ensure his performance was authentic.
Inspirations and References
The film is based on a true story and is a remake of the French film The Intouchables (2011). The real-life friendship between French businessman Philippe Pozzo di Borgo and his caregiver Abdel Sellou served as the inspiration for both films. The movie draws on the theme of unexpected friendships and the ways in which people from different worlds can profoundly impact each other.
Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes
There are no publicly known alternate endings or major deleted scenes from the movie. However, several comedic moments involving Kevin Hart were trimmed to maintain the film’s balance between drama and humor.
Book Adaptations and Differences
While the film is not directly adapted from a book, it shares the true-life origins with the memoirs written by Philippe Pozzo di Borgo (A Second Wind) and Abdel Sellou (You Changed My Life). The American version of the story stays largely faithful to the original French version but adds its own cultural context and American nuances to the narrative.
Memorable Scenes and Quotes
Key Scenes
- The moment when Dell and Phillip joyride in Phillip’s luxury sports car, marking the beginning of their playful bond.
- Dell’s attempt to manage Phillip’s complicated medical routine for the first time, leading to an awkward yet funny disaster.
- Phillip’s emotional confession about his loneliness and fear of never finding love again, which brings out the softer side of both characters.
Iconic Quotes
- Dell: “You can have any woman you want, but I can’t feel any of them.”
- Phillip: “I get that you’re frustrated, Dell. But trust me, you’re not the only one.”
- Yvonne: “I don’t think this is going to work out.”
- Dell: “You don’t have to think. You just gotta believe.”
Easter Eggs and Hidden Details
- The painting that Dell accidentally sells for a high price is a nod to the real-life incident that inspired the original French film.
- Phillip’s apartment features artwork that reflects his emotional journey, with darker, moodier pieces early on that lighten as he reconnects with life.
- There are subtle references to The Intouchables, such as the use of similar framing in certain scenes.
Trivia
- This was Kevin Hart’s first major step into more dramatic roles, which was praised by critics.
- Bryan Cranston filmed all his scenes from a wheelchair and worked closely with real-life quadriplegic consultants to ensure his performance was accurate.
- The film grossed over $125 million worldwide, showing that it resonated with audiences despite mixed reviews.
Why Watch?
Untouchable (2017) offers a feel-good story about unlikely friendships, personal growth, and the value of human connection. The movie blends humor and emotion, making it an uplifting and entertaining watch, especially for fans of Kevin Hart or Bryan Cranston.
Director’s Other Movies
- Limitless (2011)
- Divergent (2014)
- The Illusionist (2006)
- Voyagers (2021)
Recommended Films for Fans
- The Intouchables (2011)
- Green Book (2018)
- A Man Called Otto (2022)
- Patch Adams (1998)
- The Fundamentals of Caring (2016)
