What’s the worst mistake you’ve ever made? And what if you could make it right?
In the documentary Finding Sandler, David answers these questions. Apparently he once turned down movie star Adam Sandler’s invitation to chat; so years later—while living his thirties in grandma’s basement and working on local TV instead of on pop movie production—David makes another decision: track down Adam and finally have that drink. It’s an outlandish and impractical idea—realized in a believable and heartwarming fashion.
As (budget but effective) computer animation illustrates that past, David narrates. He said “no” to networking because other people were depending on him to do his job. He explains how he never could forget that moment, and that how now, he has formulated an offer that Adam won’t be able to refuse. Friends and loved ones share their thoughts—all on grainy video captured before cell phones had cameras. Grandma is adorable and supportive; the parents have mixed emotions. It’s all so real, and really, uplifting.
David himself adds entertainment to the already curious story. He’s witty and earnest, whatever height he lacks being made up for with personality and verve. Watching him convince himself, then his loved ones, then random strangers—again and again—is just plain fun. The journey of body and mind takes him and others to places nobody would have seen coming.
Finding Sandler’s production value might not be taught in film school, but its oh-so-painfully-modern hero’s journey might be worthy of that honor. In a world that makes it easy to dwell on past decisions, this movie shows us the value of making a new one.
So, what’s the worst mistake you’ve ever made? Ready to make a movie about it?
Adam chasing his dreams! By following his dreams! To Hollywood!