Is Good on Paper True Story? Plot, Cast and Trailer
by Indhu | Updated Aug 22, 2023
Good on Paper
Good on Paper was released on June 23, 2021 Good on Paper stands as a charming American romantic comedy film that marks the directorial debut of Kimmy Gatewood. The screenplay, masterfully crafted by the talented Iliza Shlesinger, forms the narrative backbone of the movie.
Shlesinger also takes on a leading role in the film, portraying one of its central characters. Alongside her, the ensemble cast includes Ryan Hansen, Margaret Cho, and Rebecca Rittenhouse, each contributing their own unique flair to the story.
Set against the backdrop of contemporary dating complexities, the film navigates the intricacies of modern romance with a comedic touch. The directorial prowess of Kimmy Gatewood breathes life into the narrative, capturing the essence of Shlesinger's script and translating it onto the screen with finesse.
With its release on the Netflix platform, Good on Paper was made accessible to a wide and diverse audience, allowing viewers to delve into the world of Shlesinger's witty storytelling and Gatewood's directorial vision. The film's blend of romance and humor, coupled with its relatable portrayal of relationships, adds to its universal appeal.
As a collaborative effort between a talented ensemble cast and a budding director, Good on Paper showcases the culmination of creative energies, ultimately offering audiences a delightful cinematic experience
Is Good on Paper a True Story?
Yes, Good on Paper movie is mostly based on a true story. The film is inspired by the real-life dating experience of comedian Iliza Shlesinger, who met a man named Brian Murphy on an airplane in 2015. Good on Paper draws its inspiration from real-life events that comedian Iliza Shlesinger experienced with her ex-partner whom she met in 2015.
In an interview with Variety, Shlesinger disclosed that a significant portion of the movie's storyline is rooted in reality, highlighting that around two-thirds of the events depicted are accurate reflections of her own experiences.
Even the fabrications told by the character Dennis Kelly in the film are based on actual lies that were recounted to her. This encompasses a range of falsehoods, such as the ex-partner's claims of having studied at Yale, holding a prestigious hedge fund position, owning a lavish Beverly Hills residence, and possessing substantial wealth. Furthermore, he falsely asserted that his mother was battling cancer.
Shlesinger's realization that something was awry began approximately three months into their relationship, prompted by his inability to cover the expenses of a party he had enthusiastically suggested hosting for her.
However, the turning point in uncovering the deception came when she discovered his lack of attendance at Yale—an event depicted in the movie as Shlesinger's on-screen friend Margot making a call to the Yale registrar's office.
The unraveling of the deception deepened as it was unveiled that he was burdened with an astonishing debt of $600,000 and that his mother's alleged cancer diagnosis was entirely fabricated. As the truth gradually came to light, Shlesinger confronted him about his dishonesty through text messages. In response, he admitted to the full extent of his deception.
Good on Paper Plot
Residing in the vibrant city of Los Angeles, Andrea Singer wears multiple hats as a stand-up comedian and an aspiring actress on the quest for success. Frustration brews within her as she witnesses the triumphs of Serrena, a fellow actress who appears to have achieved greater heights in the industry despite both of them enduring similar struggles over the years.
During her return journey from a New York City audition, a chance encounter at the airport introduces her to Dennis Kelley, a man who retrieves her misplaced boarding pass, sparking an unexpected connection. Sharing a seat on the flight, Andrea and Dennis engage in conversation, during which he unveils his impressive background as a Yale graduate involved in the realm of hedge funds.
This initial interaction lays the foundation for their burgeoning friendship, as they bond over shared interests and gradually begin spending time together in the city. Their camaraderie extends to outings at her best friend Margot's bar, as well as collaborative efforts in preparing for Andrea's auditions.
Andrea perceives Dennis as a complex blend of pompousness and humility, setting him apart from the ordinary individuals she encounters. With an openness to align his schedule with hers, he becomes a supportive presence, aiding her in honing her acting skills. Despite this growing bond, Andrea remains resolutely uninterested in Dennis romantically.
Following a performance at The Comedy Store, Dennis takes a leap and expresses his desire to make Andrea his girlfriend, albeit through an extravagant dinner marred by the embarrassment of his declined credit card. In an attempt to win her over, he mentions ordering a Cartier bracelet for her, only to retract the claim, asserting that the piece didn't meet his expectations.
In a turn of events, Andrea lands a leading role in a Vancouver-based series called "Space Cadet," a significant breakthrough for her career. Overjoyed, she contacts Dennis to share the news, prompting him to propose celebrating on Friday night. However, her pre-existing plans lead to a tangled situation.
Manipulating Andrea's emotions, Dennis fabricates a story about his mother's terminal illness, luring her away from her date to spend time with him. A night of intoxication and connection culminates in a morning where Andrea, perhaps driven by a mixture of emotions, agrees to become his girlfriend.
As their relationship deepens, doubts creep in. Andrea, alongside her friend Margot, embarks on a quest to unravel the truth behind Dennis's façade. A visit to the address he provided exposes the truth about his claimed residence, revealing the presence of two female roommates and the absence of his supposed house.
Challenging Dennis about his deception, Andrea is met with further lies, including a fabricated narrative about his ailing mother residing in his home. A weekend getaway with her Yale-educated cousin Brett and his partner Alli offers yet another opportunity for her to scrutinize Dennis's claims. The facade crumbles as Dennis feigns an injury to avoid a golf game.
Suspicion continues to mount, leading Andrea to confront Dennis about his alleged Yale diploma, the promised bracelet, and his mother's health. In response, he presents her with a pre-engagement ring, straining the veracity of their relationship further.
Back in Los Angeles, Margot delivers more unsettling revelations about Dennis, just as Andrea prepares for a significant career milestone: the table read for the pilot. Surprisingly, Serrena makes an appearance as a guest, causing Andrea's anger to bubble beneath the surface. In a twist of fate, Andrea collaborates with Serrena to dig deeper into Dennis's secrets, recruiting Margot to join their investigative efforts.
A series of discoveries ensue, unearthing the truth behind Dennis's false claims. The house he purportedly owned is inhabited by a woman named Denise, and interviews with his roommates confirm that his assertions about his education and career are all fabrications.
In a final attempt to bring Dennis's deceit to light, Margot orchestrates a scenario that results in Dennis becoming inebriated and unconscious. When Andrea confronts him, a confrontation ensues, unveiling his extensive web of lies. As tensions escalate, Dennis takes legal action, accusing Andrea of kidnapping him. Despite the ongoing legal battle, Andrea continues to seek closure, leading to a restraining order and newfound material for her stand-up comedy routine.
Good on Paper Cast
Actor
Character
Iliza Shlesinger
Andrea Singer
Ryan Hansen
Dennis Kelley
Margaret Cho
Margot
Rebecca Rittenhouse
Serrena Halstead
Matt McGorry
Brett
Tyler Cameron
Ruggedly Handsome Man
Taylor Hill
Chanterelle
Kimia Behpoornia
Maggie
Beth Dover
Leslie
Sonya Eddy
Judge Harriet Gold
Where to Watch Good on Paper?
Enjoy the opportunity to watch Good on Paper, as it is available for streaming exclusively on the Netflix platform. With this convenient option, you can delve into the captivating storyline and engaging performances of the cast at no expense.
Simply access the film on Netflix to immerse yourself in the comedic journey of Andrea Singer, portrayed by Iliza Shlesinger, as she navigates the complexities of love, deception, and self-discovery. Take advantage of this chance to savor the cinematic experience without the need for any additional payment, as Good on Paper awaits your viewing pleasure on the Netflix streaming service.
Good on Paper Trailer
Is Good On Paper True Story - FAQs
Yes, "Good on Paper" is based on a true story. The film draws its inspiration from comedian Iliza Shlesinger's real-life dating experiences, particularly her encounters with a man named Brian Murphy during a flight in 2015.
"Good on Paper" was directed by Kimmy Gatewood. This film marked her directorial debut.
The main cast members of "Good on Paper" include:
- Iliza Shlesinger as Andrea Singer
- Ryan Hansen as Dennis Kelley
- Margaret Cho as Margot
- Rebecca Rittenhouse as Serrena Halstead
- Matt McGorry as Brett
You can watch "Good on Paper" on the streaming platform Netflix. It's available for streaming to Netflix subscribers.
Yes, "Good on Paper" is heavily inspired by Iliza Shlesinger's real-life experiences, particularly her dating encounters with a man who turned out to be deceptive in various ways.