The Big Bad Swim, indie dramedy with top-notch performances

The Big Bad Swim (2006)
Jamal's Rating: 5 stars
Netflix Average Rating: 3.0 stars

There are some real treasures on the Netflix Instant Play, and The Big Bad Swim, an independent film directed by Ishai Setton and written by Daniel Schechter (who is scheduled to write a prequel to Jackie Brown), is one of them. Here is a film propelled by an engaging story, er, several engaging stories surrounding the lives of a remedial swim class -- you know, the people who are afraid to get in the water, or simply can't swim, and so have spent years avoiding it. The humor never feels forced, as in a scene where a man lying on a bed tries unsuccessfully to nudge from blocking the television his little dog, who is too dumb to care. The actors, known mostly for their TV work, are marvelous. Paget Brewster is pitch perfect as a (sorta) divorced mid-thirties high school teacher looking to get back on the dating scene again, self-consciously checking out a couple potential prospects at a bar. Jeff Branson and Jess Weixler share in a strong scene where one is drunk and the other high, which builds to a swell and takes an unexpected turn. All in all, it's a touching little character-driven film that feels just like one of those short-term classes where you go in knowing nobody and end up sharing a special bond with everybody. Be sure to stay tuned for the end credits, which feature a hilarious mock high school film project.