The Fundamentals of Caring

The Fundamentals of Caring is a poignant comedy-drama that tells the story of Ben (played by Paul Rudd), a retired writer who becomes a caregiver for Trevor (Craig Roberts), an irritable teenager suffering from muscular dystrophy. Eager to escape his past and help Trevor navigate life, Ben embarks on a road trip with him, unveiling a series of adventures that challenge their perspectives on life and relationships. Along the way, they are joined by Dot (Selena Gomez), a hitchhiker with her own unresolved issues. As they face various obstacles and mishaps, Ben and Trevor form a deep bond that teaches them both about friendship, loss, and what it means to truly care for someone. The film balances humor with heartfelt moments, effectively exploring themes of grief and human connection through a lighthearted yet thoughtful lens.

The Fundamentals of Caring has received a generally favorable response from critics and audiences alike. With an IMDb rating of 7.3/10, the film impresses viewers with its sincere portrayal of friendship and caregiving. Rotten Tomatoes gives it a score of 78%, indicating that many critics found value in its emotional depth and humor. Notably, The Hollywood Reporter remarked, "Paul Rudd brings a warm charm to the film, making it an engaging watch, while Craig Roberts delivers an honest performance that resonates with viewers." However, it faced criticism for its pacing and occasional predictability, as seen in its Metacritic score of 55/100. Indiewire commented, "While it may follow a familiar road-trip structure, its focus on character development elevates the story beyond mere clichés." Overall, The Fundamentals of Caring blends comedic elements with poignant storytelling, making it a worthwhile film for those seeking both laughs and reflection.