Months before his Oscar tweet debacle, The Root sat down with Kevin Hart to discuss his forthcoming film, The Upside, which is based on a true story that was adapted into a 2011 French film, The Intouchables.
If you check out the film, expect a feel-good movie where Hart plays the character of Dell, an ex-con who is down on his luck. Dell stumbles upon a paralyzed billionaire Phillip, played by Bryan Cranston, and becomes his live-in aide. There are several funny moments, but this film certainly takes a more serious tone than one might expect from a Kevin Hart movie.
The Upside has a somewhat predictable plot but it sort of flips the “white savior” narrative on its head. Here’s the thing: This super-wealthy white man is completely dependent on the people who surround him. So Dell becomes his lifeline and, in essence, the savior.
And, if you’re wondering, yes, Kevin Hart can act.
The Upside is in theaters on Friday, Jan. 11.