American Pickle, now on HBO Max, is about Herschel Greenbaum (Seth Rogen), a Jewish Russian immigrant who falls into a vat of pickles and is preserved for a hundred years to today, where he meets up with his descendant Ben (also Rogen). This is a unique, fun little film.
I'm pleased to say that this one surprised me. The trailer made this look like a basic fish-out-of-water movie, but what transpires is something you definitely couldn't predict. (I know this review is vague, but I don't want to spoil anything.) The movie is a fun mix of goofy humor with some satire and a message about familial and religious roots. There are a lot of laugh-out-loud moments.
The main attraction here is Herschel. Rogen, who's usually known for playing a type, delivers what may be his best character work. Herschel is an interesting mixture of traits. He can be quick to temper and single-minded but also hardworking and determined. Whereas a lot of fish-out-water movies involve the character reacting to stuff, Herschel refreshingly just barrels through.
There are a few things that aren't deal-breakers for me but could be for others. The film does a deliberative, comprehensive job of introducing Herschel and Ben, the former gets a really strong and touching backstory, but the first act might be considered too slow for some. Also, understand that the movie is basically about just Herschel and Ben with all other characters being ancillary. So, if you can't get into them there isn't a whole lot else. Lastly the movie tries to give the characters legit moments of emotional pain, while also going with a lot of over-the-top/out-of-bounds-of-reality bits. (This movie as well as the short story it was based on was written by Simon Rich, creator of Man Seeking Woman and Miracle Workers, which may give you a clue as to the style of comedy.) The disparity between the two could be jarring.
I recommend American Pickle with the warning that this isn't exactly your traditional fare. Even in the moments where the movie isn't at its best, it's still creative.
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