It’s been a long while since we’ve had decent sports film that wasn’t about mainstream sports. When it comes to bowling films, Kingpin and The Big Lebowski comes to mind, even though the latter isn’t about the sport it only features. Always angled as an American pastime and a fun hobby or something to do with friends on a Friday night, The Gutter manages to keep this image alive as well as creating the most ridiculous and hilarious scenarios and characters that have been seen on the big screen in a long while.
When Walt accepts a job at AlleyCatz, a dive bowling alley, he discovers he’s a naturally gifted bowler. Along with ex-pro bowler herself, Skunk, a frequent drinker at the alley’s bar, they decide to hit the road to take part in tournaments. But when legendary champion Linda Carsen hears of Walt’s success, she decides to come out of retirement and put him in his place.
The lack of actual laugh out loud films being made and more importantly, being seen is quite low. Aside from the narrative, the most important aspect of the film is the comedy, then maybe bowling. Directors Isaiah Lester and Yassir Lester know exactly what they’re doing. Casting their friends they’ve made working on different shows and through stand up, the array of comedic and dramatic talent alike really makes this film, as well as the fantastic costumes, particularly worn by Walt. Holding the plot up with their excellent off beat chemistry, Shameik Moore as Walt (no last name) and D’Arcy Carden as Skunk are highly entertaining. Susan Sarandon is also highly affective as the cold-hearted legendary bowling champion, who scenes steals without lifting a finger.
The comedy, no matter how ridiculous, is non-stop, literally from the opening shot to the final showdown. The Gutter is an absolutely delight, and actual breath of fresh air amongst the mediocre offerings that get left by the studios. The real gems are always found exactly where some of the jokes from the film are found and the name of the film.