Review by Justin Waldman for Mr. Will Wong
You Hurt My Feelings is both the main dilemma and title of Nicole Holofcener’s newest feature that premiered at Sundance to raves. While the Movie certainly showcases a powerhouse performance from its lead, the rest of the Movie falls a bit short, plagued by melodrama and life issues more relatable to some than others.
The Movie focuses on Beth (Julia Louis-Dreyfus), an Author whose Memoir didn’t sell as well as she had hoped. Struggling to write her next book that’s a work of Fiction, she is in a constant state of self-doubt and worry that she isn’t as good as she thought she was. On the other side of this coin is her husband Don (Tobias Menzies), a Therapist whose clientele consists of Jonathan (David Cross) and Carolyn (Amber Tamblyn), who are going through a rough patch in their marriage, seeking counselling. Don is less than helpful and ultimately just snaps and suggests they get a divorce. While both Beth and Don are dealing with their own dilemmas, the ultimate form of betrayal happens when Beth overhears Don discussing with a mutual friend that he is not impressed by Beth’s book, leading a tale of deception and emotional turmoil for Beth.
While on the one hand finding out your spouse lied to you about something that means a lot to you is hurtful, having a healthy dialogue with your partner is always a good idea. Holofcener explores the feeling of deep-seated betrayal, uncovering the deeper issues within Beth and Don‘s marriage. Should being honest and critical be the straw that breaks the camel’s back?
The true standout of You Hurt My Feelings is its star Julia Louis-Dreyfus who commands attention at every moment. She takes subtle lines from either her sister, husband, or mother and turns them into something so much more meaningful and impactful than the words that were uttered. Her performance transcends what is being said, truly resonating with the audience. She takes us to her world even if we do not necessarily agree with the way she is handling the situation. While Tobias Menzies and Michaela Watkins (playing Beth’s sister Sarah) and Jeannie Berlin (playing Beth’s mother) all deliver some well-grounded performances, it is all Louis-Dreyfus.
You Hurt My Feelings engages its audience in a fly on the wall manner but missed some marks, often feeling like listening to friends and or family ramble about everyday issues. This is not to there aren’t truths that resonate.
Elevation Pictures release YOU HURT MY FEELINGS in theatres on May 26, 2023.
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