Jay Duplass Delivers a Mediocre Grief-Filled Tragicomedy
Jay Duplass has returned to feature filmmaking with a new project titled “See You When I See You.” This film, which debuted at the Sundance Film Festival, explores the emotional turmoil of grief stemming from a young woman’s suicide. It features a cast that includes Cooper Raiff, Hope Davis, and David Duchovny.
Film Overview
“See You When I See You” is based on Adam Cayton-Holland’s memoir, “Tragedy Plus Time: A Tragi-Comic Memoir.” The narrative centers on Aaron Whistler, portrayed by Raiff, who grapples with the pain of losing his sister Leah. The film runs for 1 hour and 42 minutes.
Plot Synopsis
Set in a family dealing with the aftermath of Leah’s (Kaitlyn Dever) tragic death, the story highlights the disintegration of communication within the household. Leah’s mother, Page, becomes withdrawn, while her father, Robert, immerses himself in work to avoid confronting their loss. Aaron, who discovered Leah’s body, finds it challenging to navigate his sorrow.
Characters and Themes
- Aaron Whistler: Played by Cooper Raiff, he embodies a young comedy writer battling PTSD.
- Leah: The sister whose suicide acts as the catalyst for the family’s unraveling.
- Family Dynamics: The film portrays a dysfunctional family struggling with grief and communication.
Critical Reception
Despite the heartfelt intentions behind the film, many critics have labeled it a derivative take on the indie grief genre. The emotional impact fades under clichés typically found in this category, such as the nostalgic 90s references and the overused piano score.
Performances
The cast’s performances, particularly Raiff’s, have received praise for their depth and emotional resonance. However, some critics noted that the characters lacked depth, failing to feel wholly authentic.
Direction and Style
Duplass’s direction showcases both sensitivity and warmth at moments, though it often succumbs to predictable storytelling. The attempt to blend humor with tragedy occasionally feels forced, detracting from the film’s greater emotional truths.
Conclusion
At its core, “See You When I See You” presents a poignant exploration of grief but may not resonate deeply due to its reliance on familiar tropes. While it touches on genuine emotions, the execution falls short of creating a memorable cinematic experience.
