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Shortcomings poster

Shortcomings (2023)

Movie92mins

Where to watch Shortcomings in Australia

Streaming availability data from JustWatch.

About Shortcomings

When his girlfriend leaves for New York City on a 3-month-long internship, a strongly opinionated Berkeley arthouse movie theater manager begins exploring life as a bachelor.

Year
2023
Genres
Drama, Romance, Comedy
Runtime
92mins

What our critics think

Independent reviews from the Compare TV editorial team.

Review Team

★★★★★4/5

Shortcomings presents a refreshing take on the complexities of relationships and self-discovery in a contemporary setting. The film centres on a Berkeley arthouse cinema manager, whose life becomes a canvas for exploring the intricacies of love, loneliness, and personal growth. The performances are commendable, particularly the lead, whose portrayal of a man grappling with his identity is both relatable and poignant. The direction is sharp, with a keen eye for detail that captures the essence of the protagonist's world. The humour is subtle yet effective, providing levity amidst more serious themes. While the pacing may feel slow at times, the emotional depth of the narrative compensates for it. Overall, Shortcomings is a thoughtful film that resonates with anyone who has faced the challenges of modern relationships.

Editor Team

★★★★★3/5

Shortcomings is an interesting film, but it doesn't quite hit the mark for me. The story revolves around a guy whose girlfriend leaves for New York, and he suddenly finds himself in the wild world of bachelorhood. While I appreciate the film's attempt to tackle real-life issues, it sometimes feels a bit self-indulgent. The lead character is undeniably flawed and, at times, frustratingly so. The quirky vibe and arthouse setting are charming, but I found myself wishing for more substantial character development. There's definitely humour to be found, but it often felt overshadowed by the protagonist's angst. If you're into indie films that reflect on personal failures and relationships, you might enjoy this. However, if you're looking for something more uplifting or conclusive, you may find it lacking.

How viewers describe this

  • thought-provoking
  • charming
  • introspective
  • flawed
  • relatable
  • nuanced
  • self-indulgent
  • emotional depth
  • quirky
  • frustrating
  • engaging
  • humorous

Streaming Charts

The JustWatch Streaming Charts are calculated by user activity from the last 24 hours.

Got a question about Shortcomings?

Is Shortcomings worth watching?

Shortcomings is certainly worth watching for those who appreciate character-driven narratives and nuanced performances. The film explores themes of relationships, self-discovery, and the challenges of modern life, all set against the backdrop of a quirky arthouse cinema. With its blend of humour and introspection, viewers are likely to find it both entertaining and thought-provoking.

What is Shortcomings really about?

Shortcomings follows a Berkeley arthouse movie theatre manager whose life is upended when his girlfriend departs for a three-month internship in New York City. As he navigates bachelorhood, the film delves into his personal struggles and the complexities of relationships, identity, and the search for meaning in a fast-paced world.

Is Shortcomings suitable for children?

Shortcomings is not particularly suitable for children due to its mature themes and occasional strong language. The film deals with adult relationships and personal challenges, making it more appropriate for a mature audience.

Where can I watch Shortcomings in Australia?

In Australia, Shortcomings is available for streaming on various platforms. Check services like Amazon Prime Video or Apple TV for rental or purchase options, as availability may vary.

What happens at the end of Shortcomings? (Spoilers)

At the end of Shortcomings, the protagonist comes to a realisation about his own shortcomings and the nature of his relationships. He learns that personal growth often comes from facing uncomfortable truths and embracing change, leaving viewers with a sense of hope and introspection.

Is there a sequel to Shortcomings?

As of now, there is no announced sequel to Shortcomings. The film stands alone as a self-contained story, though its themes could lend themselves to further exploration in a potential follow-up.

What films are similar to Shortcomings?

If you enjoyed Shortcomings, you might appreciate films like Frances Ha, The Squid and the Whale, or The Last Black Man in San Francisco. These films similarly explore themes of personal identity, relationships, and the nuances of modern life.

Is Shortcomings scary?

Shortcomings is not a horror film and does not aim to scare its audience. Instead, it focuses on emotional and relational complexities, making it more of a dramedy than a thriller.