In a move that’s generating buzz across Hollywood and streaming circles, Apple has officially acquired the pickleball comedy “The Dink,” a film that promises to blend humor, heart, and high-stakes sports rivalry. Starring Jake Johnson in the lead role and featuring Ben Stiller both on-screen and behind the scenes, this acquisition marks another bold step for Apple Original Films in expanding its slate of original content. Announced on August 18, 2025, the deal secures worldwide rights for the movie, positioning it as a potential hit on Apple TV+. With a star-studded cast and a fresh take on sports comedy, “The Dink” is already being eyed as a crowd-pleaser that could draw in audiences eager for lighthearted entertainment.
The Acquisition Announcement: Apple’s Big Swing on ‘The Dink’
Apple’s decision to buy the pickleball comedy “The Dink” comes at a time when the tech giant is aggressively building its film library. On August 18, 2025, Apple Original Films revealed it had landed worldwide rights to the movie, directed by Josh Greenbaum and produced by Ben Stiller’s Red Hour Films alongside Rivulet Entertainment. The announcement included a first-look image, teasing the film’s quirky vibe and athletic antics.
While specific financial terms of the deal weren’t disclosed, industry insiders suggest this was a strategic pickup for Apple, represented by WME Independent on behalf of the filmmakers. Apple has been on a hot streak with original films, fresh off successes like the Academy Award-nominated “Killers of the Flower Moon” and the Emmy-nominated series “Severance,” which also stars Ben Stiller. This acquisition extends Apple’s ongoing collaboration with Stiller, who has become a key creative partner for the company.
The timing couldn’t be better. As of August 19, 2025, there’s no indication of a bidding war, but Apple’s swift move underscores its commitment to diverse genres, including sports comedies that tap into emerging cultural trends. “The Dink” joins upcoming Apple projects like “F1: The Movie” starring Brad Pitt and “Highest 2 Lowest” reuniting Spike Lee and Denzel Washington, signaling a push toward high-profile, star-driven features.
Plot Overview: A Hilarious Clash of Sports Worlds in ‘The Dink’
At its core, “The Dink” is a story of redemption, family, and reluctant adaptation. Jake Johnson stars as a washed-up tennis pro who’s hit rock bottom. Desperate to save a struggling local club and finally earn his father’s respect—played by the legendary Ed Harris—he makes an unthinkable choice: breaking a sacred personal vow to take up pickleball.
The screenplay, penned by Sean Clements, cleverly uses the tension between traditional tennis and the upstart sport of pickleball to drive the comedy. Johnson’s character must navigate the humiliation of switching to what he sees as a lesser game, leading to awkward encounters, rivalries, and laugh-out-loud moments. Cameos from real tennis icons Andy Roddick and John McEnroe add authenticity and extra humor, poking fun at the sport’s elite.
Without spoiling too much, the plot echoes classic underdog tales but with a modern twist. It’s not just about winning games; it’s about personal growth, mending relationships, and embracing change. As production wrapped earlier this year, early buzz suggests the film balances slapstick with heartfelt scenes, making it appealing for family viewing on Apple TV+.
Star-Studded Cast: Who’s Bringing ‘The Dink’ to Life?
One of the biggest draws of Apple’s newly acquired pickleball comedy “The Dink” is its impressive ensemble cast. Led by Jake Johnson, known for his relatable everyman roles in “New Girl” and “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” the film features a mix of comedy veterans, dramatic heavyweights, and sports pros.
Here’s a breakdown of the key players in a handy table for quick reference:
| Actor/Actress | Role/Character Description | Notable Previous Works |
|---|---|---|
| Jake Johnson | Lead: Washed-up tennis pro | “New Girl,” “Self Reliance,” “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” |
| Ben Stiller | Co-star and producer | “Severance,” “Zoolander,” “Tropic Thunder” |
| Mary Steenburgen | Supporting role | “The Proposal,” “Step Brothers,” “Book Club” |
| Ed Harris | The protagonist’s father | “The Truman Show,” “Apollo 13,” “Westworld” |
| Chloe Fineman | Supporting role | “Saturday Night Live,” “Babylon” |
| Aaron Chen | Supporting role | “Fisk,” stand-up comedy specials |
| Patton Oswalt | Supporting role | “Ratatouille,” “The Goldbergs,” “Veep” |
| Chris Parnell | Supporting role | “Saturday Night Live,” “Archer,” “Rick and Morty” |
| Christine Taylor | Supporting role | “Zoolander,” “Dodgeball,” “Arrested Development” |
| Andy Roddick | Cameo as himself/tennis champion | Former world No. 1 tennis player |
| John McEnroe | Cameo as himself/tennis champion | Tennis legend, commentator |
| Martin Kove | Supporting role | “The Karate Kid,” “Cobra Kai” |
This cast brings a wealth of experience, with Stiller’s involvement adding a layer of meta-humor given his history in sports comedies like “Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story.” Johnson, who also produces, has expressed excitement about the project in past interviews, noting how the role allowed him to blend physical comedy with emotional depth. The inclusion of real athletes like Roddick and McEnroe ensures the film’s sports sequences feel genuine, elevating it beyond typical genre fare.
Behind the Scenes: Director, Crew, and Production Journey
Directing “The Dink” is Josh Greenbaum, a rising name in comedy who’s also helming the highly anticipated “Spaceballs 2.” Greenbaum’s previous works, including the documentary “Will & Harper” and the cult favorite “Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar,” showcase his knack for blending absurdity with warmth—perfect for a film like this.
The script comes from Sean Clements, who doubles as an executive producer. Production kicked off on November 4, 2024, in Los Angeles, under the banners of Red Hour Films and Rivulet Entertainment. Ben Stiller and John Lesher led the charge for Red Hour, while Rob Paris and Mike Witherill handled duties for Rivulet. Jake Johnson joined as a producer, ensuring his vision for the character shone through.
Music is composed by Dara Taylor, whose score is expected to amp up the film’s energetic pace. Executive producers include Rick Steele, Clements, Greenbaum, Joe Hardesty, Jonathan McCoy, and Daniel Crosser. The production wrapped smoothly, with no reported delays, setting the stage for post-production refinements before Apple’s acquisition.
This collaboration isn’t new for some involved; Stiller and Rivulet recently teamed up on “Nutcrackers,” released in November 2024, which received positive reviews for its holiday charm. For Apple, snagging “The Dink” aligns with its strategy of partnering with proven talents to create binge-worthy content.
Apple’s Growing Portfolio: Why ‘The Dink’ Fits Perfectly
Apple’s buy of the pickleball comedy “The Dink” is more than just another acquisition—it’s a calculated addition to a burgeoning film empire. Since launching Apple Original Films, the company has racked up accolades, including Oscars for “CODA” and “The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse.” With “The Dink,” Apple taps into the sports comedy niche, much like its upcoming racing drama “F1: The Movie.”
This move also strengthens ties with key creatives. Ben Stiller’s “Severance” earned 27 Emmy nominations in 2025, including Outstanding Drama Series, making him a valuable asset. Jake Johnson is set to star in Apple’s comedic thriller “Maximum Pleasure Guaranteed” with Tatiana Maslany, further cementing his role in the ecosystem.
In a streaming landscape dominated by Netflix and Amazon, Apple’s focus on quality over quantity shines here. “The Dink” could appeal to a broad demographic, from comedy fans to those intrigued by its unique premise, potentially boosting subscriber engagement.
Public and Industry Reactions to Apple’s Acquisition of ‘The Dink’
The news of Apple buying the pickleball comedy “The Dink” has sparked enthusiastic responses online and in industry circles. As of August 19, 2025, social media is abuzz with excitement, memes, and predictions about the film’s success.
Here are some key reactions in bullet form:
- Barstool Sports (@barstoolsports): “Ben Stiller’s New Pickleball Comedy Movie, ‘The Dink’, Is Coming To Every Device Near You After Getting Bought By Apple.” Their post garnered over 500 likes, highlighting the film’s accessibility on Apple devices.
- @JoaquinMQ7: “Ben Stiller making a pickleball comedy called the dink 💀 you can’t script it better. Apple really betting big on the pickleball wave… y’all watching or skipping?” This tweet captures the humorous surprise many feel about the title and theme.
- Rolling Stone Philippines (@rollingstoneph): Shared details on Jake Johnson’s role, noting the film’s potential to spotlight niche sports in mainstream media.
- @Pickleballnowin: “Ben Stiller’s The Dink lands at Apple, marking his big return to sports comedy.” Enthusiasm from pickleball enthusiasts underscores the film’s appeal to fans of the sport.
- Cult of Mac (@cultofmac): “The Dink comedy puts pickleball in play on Apple TV+,” praising the acquisition as a fun addition to the platform.
Industry outlets like Deadline and Variety have hailed it as a smart pickup, with comments on how it fits Apple’s premium content strategy. Overall, reactions are positive, with many drawing parallels to Stiller’s past hits and anticipating strong streaming numbers.
What to Expect: Release Date, Trailer, and Future Implications
As of August 19, 2025, Apple hasn’t announced a specific release date for “The Dink,” but given the acquisition timing, a late 2025 or early 2026 premiere on Apple TV+ seems likely. No trailer has dropped yet, but fans can expect teasers soon, possibly featuring Johnson’s comedic physicality and Stiller’s signature wit.
Looking ahead, “The Dink” could pave the way for more niche sports comedies in Hollywood. Its success might influence Apple’s future buys, emphasizing projects with strong casts and relatable stories. For Stiller and Johnson, it’s an opportunity to solidify their streaming presence, potentially leading to sequels or spin-offs if it resonates with viewers.
In terms of broader impact, this film highlights how streaming giants like Apple are reshaping entertainment by investing in original ideas that blend humor with timely themes. Whether it’s the family dynamics or the sports rivalry, “The Dink” has the ingredients to become a sleeper hit.
Conclusion: Why ‘The Dink’ Could Be Apple’s Next Comedy Gem
Apple’s acquisition of the pickleball comedy “The Dink” starring Jake Johnson and Ben Stiller is a testament to the company’s savvy in spotting potential hits. With a compelling plot, powerhouse cast, and expert direction, the film is poised to deliver laughs and heart in equal measure. As we await more details on its release, one thing is clear: “The Dink” represents the kind of fresh, engaging content that could help Apple climb the ranks in the streaming wars.
Stay tuned for updates on trailers, premiere dates, and more. If you’re searching for the latest on “Apple buys pickleball comedy ‘The Dink’,” this acquisition is just the beginning of what promises to be an entertaining ride.
