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Nicole Holofcener, a renowned writer-director, has been a consistent figure in the US independent film scene since her 1996 debut film, “Walking and Talking.” Known for her sophisticated female-centered comedies, Holofcener’s latest work, “You Hurt My Feelings,” revolves around pampered and neurotic Manhattanites who find their personal issues trivial in the face of greater world griefs – a darkly humorous aspect of the film.
Julia Louis-Dreyfus, known for her roles in “Seinfeld” and “Veep,” stars in the film. She previously collaborated with Holofcener in the 2013 film “Enough Said,” where she impressed audiences with her role opposite the late James Gandolfini. In “You Hurt My Feelings,” Louis-Dreyfus portrays Beth, a struggling writer working on her novel after a moderately successful memoir that went largely unread by her writing students. Her husband, Don (played by Tobias Menzies), is a psychotherapist experiencing a period of self-doubt and dealing with challenging patients, including a bickering couple (played by David Cross and Amber Tamblyn) who thrive on constant conflict.
Beth’s world shatters when she overhears Don confessing that he doesn’t like her novel. This revelation sends ripples of anxiety through Beth’s sister, Sarah (played by Michaela Watkins), and Sarah’s actor husband (played by Arian Moayed). The film cleverly explores the paradox of how being overly supportive of loved ones can unknowingly cause harm and damage.
The film employs a minimalist execution style, yet every detail is meticulously crafted. The performances are exceptional as well. Louis-Dreyfus portrays Beth with tender agony, sporting a resilient smile despite daily humiliations. She shares a beautiful on-screen chemistry with Menzies, who masterfully conveys contained cringe and appears on the verge of a slow, gradual breakdown. Jeannie Berlin, recently seen as the matriarch in “The Fabelmans,” delivers an imperious and irritable portrayal of Beth’s mother. While the film explores familiar territory as an urbane, angst-fueled New York comedy, it surpasses anything Woody Allen has produced in recent decades and boasts Holofcener’s distinct and wry voice.
★★★★☆
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