Linoleum (film)
A dramedy about finding joy and fulfillment in life.
Colin West wrote and directed Linoleum, a 2022 American sci-fi comedy-drama featuring Jim Gaffigan. The film debuted at the 2022 South by Southwest Film Festival on March 12, with a limited US theatrical release following on February 24, 2023, via Shout! Studios.
Quick Facts
- Director
- Colin West
- Producer
- Chadd Harbold
- Chad Simpson
- Dennis Masel
- Starring
- Jim Gaffigan
- Rhea Seehorn
- Katelyn Nacon
- Gabriel Rush
- Michael Ian Black
- Tony Shalhoub
- Cinematography
- Ed Wu
- Editing
- Keara Burton
- Music
- Mark Hadley
- Studio
- Sub-Sequential
- Storm City Films
- Brain Scratch Productions
- Distributor
- Shout! Studios
Facts from the source article.
Plot
Cameron Edwin, a middle-aged astronomer in small-town Ohio, hosts an unsuccessful science education show on local television while his wife Erin divorces him, his teenage daughter Nora rebels, and his young son Sam is silent. One day, a red sports car falls from the sky behind Cameron as he cycles home; inside is an unconscious man who closely resembles him. At dinner, Erin suggests the car hit a curb and flipped. The next morning, Cameron reads that the man is Kent Armstrong, a successful astronaut.
At Nora's high school, a new student named Marc, who shares her birthday of October 31st, sits in front of her in math class. Cameron learns that PBS wants to acquire his show only if Kent becomes host, reducing Cameron to a creative consultant; Cameron walks away from the show. At home, authorities inform the family that a Russian spacecraft fell into their backyard, making the house a site of evidence, so they move in with Erin's sister. Nora and Marc bond after school, though Nora states she is attracted to women.
Marc and Cameron trespass at the family house, see the wreckage, and agree it is likely American in origin. Cameron recalls his astronaut aspirations, and Marc suggests building a rocket from the spacecraft remains. Cameron begins tinkering in the garage, vexing Erin. At night, Marc and Nora wander town, forming a strong bond.
Reception
On Rotten Tomatoes, Linoleum holds an approval rating of 82% based on 76 reviews, with an average rating of 6.9/10. The critical consensus calls it a solid showcase for Jim Gaffigan and a sneakily ambitious dramedy. Alan Ng of Film Threat rated it 8.5 out of 10, describing it as a heartfelt and touching movie about finding joy and fulfillment. Ross Bonaime of Collider gave it an A−, praising West's extraordinary tale of personal universes and the messiness of life.
Trace Sauveur of The Austin Chronicle wrote that it is a surprising and poignant reflection on living a fulfilling life. Brian Tallerico of RogerEbert.com gave a mixed review, noting many good ideas but a lack of clear vision. Mae Abdulbaki of Screen Rant awarded three stars out of five, highlighting its look at regret and untapped potential. Angie Han of The Hollywood Reporter found thoughtful performances and earnest writing compelling, with startling final minutes.
Pete Hammond of Deadline Hollywood called it a pleasant but less than memorable ride. Robert Daniels of IndieWire graded it a B, calling it an otherworldly tragedy about endings and beginnings. Matt Donato of IGN gave a positive review, noting how the film inspires zest for lives lived to the fullest.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who stars in Linoleum (film)?
Linoleum stars Jim Gaffigan, Rhea Seehorn, Katelyn Nacon, Gabriel Rush, Michael Ian Black and Tony Shalhoub.
Who composed the music for Linoleum (film)?
The music for Linoleum was composed by Mark Hadley.
How long is Linoleum (film)?
Linoleum has a running time of 101 minutes.
More in American Science Fiction Comedy-drama Films
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