'Cooped Up': A fun, light-hearted rom-com that accurately predicted the coronavirus outbreak in 2016 itself
The coronavirus outbreak may have brought production of films and TV shows to a screeching halt, but there is still some great content out there waiting to be watched. Some are gems and need a fair bit of unearthing.
One of them is Kane Guglielmi's 'Cooped Up'. The light-hearted drama accurately predicted the coronavirus pandemic and used it as an integral part of its storyline. Starring Charles Cottier and Kathryn Beck, the film sees a young wrestler reportedly coming into contact with the virus.
What follows is the same advice that is being followed by the rest of the world today— Quarantine. Jake (Cottier) is asked to remain in self-isolation for 21 days and is checked for temperature and change in heart-rate every day by Emily and eventually live blossoms between the two.
'Cooped Up' was shot in 2016, but has come to light given the recent turn of events. Crackle TV acquired the rights for the film.
Talking about the film in a statement, Guglielmi said: "When I made 'Cooped Up', I never dreamt its concept would become a reality for millions worldwide. During this time, my hope is that it becomes a feel-good distraction for everyone in need of a little light-heartedness. I’m grateful to Crackle for partnering with me to premiere this personal film to their U.S. audience."
Call it sheer timing that the film actually made more headlines now than it did a few years back and among shows/films that are based on pandemics and deadly disease outbreaks, 'Cooped Up' comes across as a fun and breezy watch. It is a family film and is certainly heart-tugging.
You can watch the trailer here:
The official synopsis reads: "After coming in contact with a potentially fatal coronavirus, a bitter professional wrestler is forced to isolate himself in his childhood home for 21 days."
While there is enough drama, the main theme is the virus and this is a surprisingly fun take as themes such as these usually bring with them a gloomy tone. 'Cooped Up' steers clear from all the gore and sadness, but actually looks at real-life problems and the emotions that come with being sick and isolated.
'Cooped Up' airs on May 14 on Crackle TV.