Watch Close But No Cigar

Close But No Cigar is a captivating comedy-drama film that hit the screens in 2017, boasting an all-star cast led by Paul Baverstock, Tim Charles, and William Wolfe Hogan. The film takes audiences on a heartwarming journey of friendship, dreams, and the pursuit of happiness, all wrapped in a tapestry of hilarious and poignant moments.

The story revolves around three middle-aged friends, John (Paul Baverstock), Tom (Tim Charles), and Charlie (William Wolfe Hogan). They were best buddies growing up in a small, tight-knit town where everyone knew each other and dreams seemed endless. However, as they matured, the trio found themselves trapped in adulthood, their youthful ambitions slowly withering away.

John, once a passionate artist, now finds himself stuck in a monotonous desk job, struggling to find inspiration. Unhappy with the path his life has taken, he yearns to reconnect with his artistic talents and regain a sense of purpose. Meanwhile, Tom, who always dreamt of becoming a professional footballer, finds himself trapped in a mundane routine as a mechanic. Despite his skills and love for the game, life's responsibilities have pushed his aspirations to the backburner. Lastly, Charlie, a charismatic ladies' man, is now navigating the dating scene after a string of failed relationships, searching for the one person who will finally complete him.

Their lives seem destined to follow this lackluster trajectory until one fateful night. Over a few drinks at their local pub, they stumble upon a hidden treasure—a dusty, forgotten box packed with their childhood dreams, aspirations, and a map leading to an abandoned amusement park on the outskirts of town. Driven by a newfound burst of energy and the sheer nostalgia of their youthful ambitions, the friends embark on a quest to make all their dreams come true—no matter how outrageous they may seem.

As they journey through the amusement park's forgotten rides, they encounter various eccentric characters who come to represent the hurdles life throws at them. Each attraction, whether it be the haunted house or the roller coaster, serves as a metaphor for the challenges they face in their pursuit of happiness. With every triumph and setback, their bond grows stronger, reminding them of the unwavering friendship that has carried them through thick and thin.

Throughout their adventure, the friends have hilarious misadventures, uncover life lessons, and have their fair share of romance along the way. Close But No Cigar touches on themes of self-discovery, nostalgia, and the resilience of the human spirit. It invites audiences to reflect on their own dreams and the hurdles that prevent them from reaching their full potential.

The performances in the film are nothing short of outstanding. Paul Baverstock delivers a nuanced portrayal of John, capturing the character's inner struggle and growth with sincerity. Tim Charles brings warmth and authenticity to the role of Tom, expertly showcasing the character's determination and vulnerability. William Wolfe Hogan infuses Charlie with charisma and charm, making him a relatable and lovable character.

Directed by a talented up-and-coming filmmaker, Close But No Cigar effortlessly blends comedy and drama, offering a rollercoaster ride of emotions that leave audiences both laughing and contemplating their own lives. The stunning cinematography beautifully captures the nostalgic ambiance of the abandoned amusement park, creating a visually captivating experience.

In a world where dreams are often sidetracked by the responsibilities of adulthood, Close But No Cigar reminds us to never give up on our passions. Through friendship, humor, and the pursuit of forgotten dreams, this heartfelt film offers a gentle reminder that it's never too late to chase the spark that makes life worth living.

Close But No Cigar is a 2019 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 38 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.4.