The Upside

The Upside is currently streaming in the US on Hulu, and it delivers exactly the kind of comedy that earns a loyal following. The runtime earns every minute, with nothing here that feels like padding. 1,411 viewers have already rated it on TMDB — the kind of consensus that does not happen by accident. Kevin Hart leads a cast with real comic timing. Start it on Hulu whenever you need something guaranteed to land.

Whatever else is competing for your attention this week, The Upside is worth clearing space for. Sharp writing and a well-matched ensemble are what separate The Upside from the crowd. Phillip is a wealthy quadriplegic who needs a caretaker to help him with his day-to-day routine in his New York penthouse. He decides to hire Dell, a struggling parolee who's trying to reconnect with his ex and his young son. Despite coming from two different worlds, an unlikely friendship starts to blossom. Kevin Hart and Bryan Cranston lead a cast with the timing to make it work. It hit screens in 2019. The Upside earns its laughs from character rather than situation, which is why it does not wear thin the way pure farce tends to. There is real craft here, even in the moments that do not fully land.

If you need a comedy that actually makes you laugh, The Upside is a strong candidate. If you have run out of similar titles to watch, this is a strong next pick. It is a manageable watch, easy to fit into a single evening. Kevin Hart sets the tone, but the supporting cast is where a lot of the best moments come from. A reliable pick for any night you want quality comedy without the homework.