The Do-Deca-Pentathlon

The Do-Deca-Pentathlon is a 2012 American comedy film directed by Jay Duplass and Mark Duplass. The film centers on two adult brothers who reignite a homemade 25-event athletic competition from their youth during a family vacation, leading to escalating chaos. A product of the mumblecore movement, it features the directors' signature improvisational style and was produced by their company, Duplass Brothers Productions.

Plot

During a family vacation at their mother's home, estranged brothers Mark and Jeremy secretly resurrect "The Do-Deca-Pentathlon," a bizarre 25-event contest they invented as teenagers. The competition, which includes events like arm wrestling, miniature golf, and Ping-Pong, quickly consumes them, straining Mark's relationship with his wife, Stephanie, and Jeremy's attempts to connect with his mother, Linda. Their obsessive rivalry disrupts the entire household, forcing their family to intervene as the brothers' childish behavior threatens to derail their adult lives and any chance of reconciliation.

Production

The film was written by Mark Duplass and Jay Duplass and marks a return to their lower-budget, improvisational roots following larger studio projects. Principal photography took place in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, utilizing a small crew and the directors' characteristic collaborative approach with the cast. The project was initially shot in 2008 but was temporarily shelved when the brothers were hired to direct *Cyrus* for 20th Century Fox. The score was composed by Julian Wass, and cinematography was handled by Jas Shelton.

Release

*The Do-Deca-Pentathlon* had its world premiere at the SXSW Film Festival on March 15, 2012. Following the festival circuit, it received a limited theatrical release in the United States on July 6, 2012, distributed by 20th Century Fox. The release strategy focused on art house theaters and markets receptive to independent film, capitalizing on the growing popularity of the Duplass brothers following films like *Cyrus* and *Jeff, Who Lives at Home*.

Reception

Critical reception was generally positive, with praise for its authentic portrayal of sibling rivalry and its heartfelt comedy. Reviewers noted the film as a welcome return to the Duplass brothers' mumblecore aesthetic, with strong performances from Mark Kelly and Steve Zissis. The film holds a rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on collected reviews, with critics from outlets like The New York Times and The A.V. Club highlighting its charm and relatability. It was also screened at festivals including the Edinburgh International Film Festival.

Home media

The film was released on DVD and Blu-ray by 20th Century Fox Home Entertainment following its theatrical run. It later became available on various digital distribution platforms and streaming services, including Hulu and Amazon Prime Video, increasing its accessibility to audiences. The home media release includes special features such as audio commentary from the Duplass brothers and deleted scenes.

Category:2012 films Category:American comedy films Category:Films directed by the Duplass brothers Category:2010s comedy-drama films