Review
No Hard Feelings (Comedy) (2023)
Director: Gene Stupnitsky
Writer: Gene Stupnitsky, John Phillips
Stars: Jennifer Lawrence, Andrew Barth Feldman, Kyle Mooney, Scott MacArthur
Desperate to earn additional funds, a young woman stumbles upon an advertisement that sees two parents trying to find a date for their introverted son.
Truly unique in its inception, the plot for Stupnitsky’s latest film came from a Craigslist ad; upon sharing the story with Lawrence over dinner, the plan was set in motion. A bizarre modern oddity provides a raunchy comedy. It was produced by Columbia Pictures, Saks Picture Company, Odenkirk Provissiero Entertainment and Excellent Cadaver while being distributed by Sony Pictures Releasing.
Trying to settle some debts, facing the repossession of her car, and soon losing her inherited home, Maddie (Jennifer Lawrence) would try anything to earn additional funds. Stumbling across a listing by some worried parents, soon to send their son to Princeton University; introverted and never having been with a girl, they feel his potential is limited and are hoping a young woman could seduce their son and have him prepared for bigger and better things.
Proposed due to an absurd Craigslist request, this comedy by Stupnitsky feels like it was handed an absurd narrative before its inception. Adding a wealth divide and money troubles despite its absurdity, the feature would be able to deliver a touching friendship through unusual means.
From an unusual idea, to put it mildly—we’re steeped in a script relishing physical comedy and instant gratification with its slapstick-style comedy. Each scene is clearly delineated, relying on specific story beats that are unable to feel quite natural, which might’ve been a long shot anyway, seeing the subject matter. Some parts allow the audience to gather easy-to-grasp context clues, with Stupnitsky letting the joke run before enacting the expected conclusion.
It is fully intended as an off-the-wall comedic feature, and its rudimentary features fit the varied segments. The off-hand remarks, walloping nuttiness and a decent-enough sense of humour allow everyone to shine adjoining Lawrence. Somehow, what begins as an awkward idea grows into a natural bond between its two characters—feeling that without its lead actress, it would’ve likely been challenging to achieve as much success.
Lingering in a niche that I would’ve thought antiquated, ‘’No Hard Feelings’’ proves that such a film still works with ample direction and capable acting. Yes, it’s overly comedic, although surprising sections of drama and character-building follow through on the timing the humour needs to become as effective; praise goes to its director and the writing.
Verdict
Even when appearing strange at first, some things are just worth the money.
7,5
