Owen Wilson Brings Bob Ross Energy to New Comedy Movie Paint

Owen Wilson has adopted a full-on Bob Ross mode look, sporting a fuzzy perm and chatting softly while painting an evergreen tree. His latest film appears to be at least partially influenced by the venerable TV artist, at least based on the teaser.

Paint’s Screenplay Dates Back to 2010

Owen Wilson portrays Carl Nargle, a kind, outdoorsy artist, in Brit McAdams’ film Paint. For nearly three decades, Nargle has helmed Vermont’s premier painting exhibition—until another artist takes the lead.

The Paint screenplay was blacklisted in 2010 and the cast included Wendi McLendon-Covey, Lusia Strus, Michaela Watkins, Stephen Root, and Lucy Freyer. It’s finally getting the recognition it deserves.

The trailer, which was released last week, depicts Nargle enthralling viewers with his show, which is broadcast at nightlife locations and senior homes alike. A younger artist performing in a new show called Paint With Ambrosia enters the stadium, shattering Nargle’s idyllic environment. The character of Ambrosia, played by Ciara Renée, is said to “take paint to a whole new realm,” according to the teaser.

Definitely Not a Movie About Bob Ross

Ross isn’t mentioned in the trailer, and the movie’s events aren’t based on his life. Nonetheless, “the late artist undoubtedly lives on in Wilson’s Paint performance,” as Alexandra Del Rosario of The Los Angeles Times puts it.

Despite the fact that Ross passed away in 1995 at the age of 52, his legacy continues to this day as new generations continue to watch reruns of The Pleasure of Painting on streaming services and purchase Ross-themed goods like chia pets, T-shirts, and slow cookers.

Many art critics would agree that great artists, like Bob Ross, will be remembered and their legacy will live among us. Bob will always be known for his “you can do this, too” message.