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Exciting new ensemble for pickleball-themed comedy ‘The Dink’
A star-studded lineup joins ‘The Dink’
Chloe Fineman, Patton Oswalt, and tennis legend John McEnroe are set to join an amusing new pickleball comedy, ‘The Dink’. This project hails from Josh Greenbaum, celebrated for his recent Netflix documentary, Will & Harper. Alongside these big names, Aaron Chen, Martin Kove, Chris Parnell, and Christine Taylor will also showcase their talents in this promising ensemble.
Returning faces and acclaimed stars
Already creating buzz, ‘The Dink’ boasts a stellar cast further enriched by Jake Johnson, Mary Steenburgen, Ed Harris, and Ben Stiller. Notably, Andy Roddick, another tennis great, is also part of this intriguing project. The commencement of principal photography this week in Los Angeles marks the onset of what promises to be a laughter-filled extravaganza.
Script and storyline
Sean Clements, known for his brilliant work on Workaholics, pens the script. The narrative follows a washed-up tennis pro attempting to save a club in crisis. The protagonist’s journey of earning his father’s respect and mastering pickleball while breaking a vow adds layers and depth to the storyline.
Production team insights
With John Lesher and Ben Stiller producing under the Red Hour Films banner, joined by Johnson and Rivulet’s Rob Paris and Mike Witherill, the project promises high production values. Rivulet not only funds the venture but also contributes industry expertise with senior strategic advisor Rick Steele as an executive producer.
Technical consultants and realism in sports
Incorporating realism, renowned tennis coach Brad Gilbert—who coached Grand Slam champion Coco Gauff—contributes his expertise as a technical consultant. His wife Kim joins him, following their successful role in the production of Challengers, a romantic drama by Luca Guadagnino focusing on a love triangle on and off the court.
Previous collaborations and successes
Ben Stiller and Rivulet’s collaboration history includes Nutcrackers, directed by David Gordon Green, acquired by Hulu and Disney+ after its triumphant debut at the Toronto Film Festival. This history underpins the potential success of ‘The Dink’, backed by a proven track record of high-quality, engaging content.
Cast member highlights and credentials
- Chloe Fineman: Known for her versatile performances on Saturday Night Live and set to lead Hulu’s Summer of ’69.
- Patton Oswalt: Renowned for roles in The King of Queens, Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, and Young Adult.
- Aaron Chen: Currently starring in Netflix comedy Fisk and will appear in Kinda Pregnant, alongside Amy Schumer.
- Martin Kove: Famously from The Karate Kid films and Cobra Kai.
- Chris Parnell: A voice talent for FX’s Archer and Adult Swim’s Rick and Morty; an SNL alum from 1998 to 2006.
- Christine Taylor: Notable roles in Apple TV+’s High Desert, HBO Max’s Search Party, Dodgeball, and Zoolander.
- John McEnroe: A tennis superstar with seven Grand Slam titles, known for his appearances in Adam Sandler’s Jack and Jill and Anger Management, and as the narrator of Netflix’s Never Have I Ever.
Representation and industry support
- Chloe Fineman: Represented by CAA and Nicole Garcia Management.
- Patton Oswalt: With UTA, Independent Artists Media, and Jackoway Austen.
- John McEnroe: Under the representation of IMG.
- Aaron Chen: Represented by UTA and 3 Arts Entertainment.
- Martin Kove: Managed by Gary Ousdahl at Advanced Management, and legally by Feig Finkel LLP.
- Christine Taylor: Represented by UTA and Strand Entertainment.
With such an impressive lineup and strong industry backing, ‘The Dink’ is poised to be a standout production in the comedic genre, blending the niche sport of pickleball with the charm and talent of seasoned actors and comedians. This forthcoming feature holds promise, blending laughter, sportsmanship, and a heartfelt storyline.
Stay tuned as ‘The Dink’ sets the stage for a dynamic fusion of sports and comedy, one rally at a time. Share your excitement for this pickleball comedy with your friends and follow us for more updates on this and other exciting releases!
