First time feature film director Paul Downs Colaizzo has written a screenplay that is relatable, optimistic, and charming. A single woman struggling to get by in current-day New York City is driven to make more responsible choices in her life when she starts training for the New York City Marathon.
Inspired by the writer-director's real-life friend Brittany O'neill, the film is a female-centered, coming-of-age story about self-esteem, personal responsibility, and serious friendship. It's in the same thematic vein as the comedies Late Night, from earlier this year, Trainwreck (2015), and even Bridesmaids (2011). Oftentimes, comedic roles for women are one-note with only one purpose in a film to say silly things, give some brief levity, and then disappear. Brittany Runs a Marathon is a special comedy because its lead character (and all the supporting characters too) isn't like that. She's about more than just laughs. Actress Jillian Bell (Rough Night, 2017) gives a performance that is insecure, sensitive, and guarded while managing to be funny and irreverent as well. That's what makes this film memorable and enjoyable, and I hope this inspires people to create more films with funny, three-dimensional women that aren't watered down.
The dialogue and character arc are written in a realistic, unpretentious, and simple way, so the story of a woman working to improve her life doesn't feel preachy or like a condescending lecture. Is Brittany Runs a Marathon a thrilling revolution of cinema? No. But not every film has to be a tidal wave of revolutionary ideas or innovation. It's an uplifting and fun film about adversity, progress, and fulfillment. Viewers can always benefit from a happy film that's not corny or weepy.
