The Duel - Gentlemen's Rules

The Duel, starring Dylan Sprouse and Patrick Warburton, poses an interesting question, namely, can or should modern problems be solved with historic solutions. Specifically, was the antebellum tradition of dueling a bonafide, or even an honorable way for real men to settle serious personal disputes? While this may seem outrageous on its face to modern audiences, the film goes to great lengths to explain, after a fashion, the philosophical basis for a practice that presumably spanned many centuries. Of course, the idea that SoCal beach bums would readily adopt the Code Duello may strain the credulity of the viewer. Undoubtedly inspired, to some degree or another, by the success and notoriety of Hamilton on Broadway, The Duel posits an improbable question in a very engaging and watchable package. Patrick Warburton as the dueling expert is reason enough to watch this!

Reading twenty reviews or so, to see if this is worth watching or not, but I found them unhelpful. They all seem to be written by people close to the cast and/or crew. To give you an idea of what you're getting into, this movie is mostly dialog and little action. The storyline is about a guy who finds out his best friend has been sleeping with his girlfriend, thus taking him into a duel like it's the wild west!! It did not make sense even after I finished watching. You wonder why can't men resolve their differences in civil manner, or is that intentional propaganda? I'm all for independent filmmaking and do recognize the effort here. Budget-wise, it's a good production. Dialog is engaging, but it's nothing exceptional. I loved Patrick Warburton's performance. Would I recommend it to someone like me? Probably not. I'd skip it. But if you just wanted to pass time, it wouldn't be a total waste. There's great attempt from the filmmakers to make quality production here, from the writing, to the acting and cinematography. Therefore, I'm not giving it a rating lower than 5/10.

At first I was hesitant to give this movie the time of day given the poor score. Now, I am glad I did, and what a time well spent! The story is built on a simple idea that unwound masterfully from beginning to end. There is no over-the-top action scene, no flashy CGIs, no pretentious idealistic message, or downright propaganda that plagues Hollywood today. It offer fun entertainment and that is IT! Kudos to the surprisingly talented and underrated actors here. Their characters were all charmingly unique that I was easily invested in what their outcome would be. And, the awsome musical score is the juicy cherry on top. At any rate, don't take my word for it. Watch and decide for yourself.

Masterfully shot. Great acting by a superb cast. Awesome sound. Innovative plot line for sure! And the complex ending toys with one's emotions. Funny and horrifying at the same time.

Warburton is phenomenal. Sprouse and Macaullife provide nuanced believable characters. Guttman is glorious. At any given point, any member of this large cast is doing the heavy lifting of carrying the movie!

Set in California and Mexico, with mysterious and opulent settings, this film was shot almost entirely in Indiana by up and coming Pigasus Pictures!

If you want to catch it on the big screen... it'll be on 500 screens nationwide on July 31 only! (Followed by a smaller number of theatres for a longer run). Will be a bit before it's streaming.

So put on your tux with tails and white tie (like the characters), grab a red Solo cup, and get to a theatre soon!

The Duel is a brilliant dark comedy about two best friends trying to settle an argument. This film is a perfect combination of dark humor, comedy, and drama. The performances are incredible and really have you fully engaged with these characters and their story. Denton, Love, and Warburton will have your sides hurting from laughter! The script is layered with commentary on friendship, love, heartbreak and will. Justin Matthews and Luke Spencer Roberts truly are a dynamic writing duo to keep an eye out for! It's nothing short of a good time. You will most definitely have fun watching this. It will not disappoint!