Do you lie to your loved ones in order to spare their feelings, or to show support? That is the theme tackled in the unassuming dramedy "You Hurt My Feelings," directed and written by Nicole Holofcener. Moviegoers familiar with Holofcener's body of work will note that this has quite a few themes and tropes which can be found in most of her other films: a strong female lead, a writer and/or a divorcee, characters who live in New York, and a leading actress who used to star in a successful 90s sitcom. Not to say that these are bad elements to utilize in a modern script. On the contrary, it is quite refreshing to see understated movies amidst cinematic offerings filled with CGI, superheroes, and fast-paced action scenes. "You Hurt My Feelings" stars Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Seinfeld), Tobias Menzies (Underworld: Blood Wars), Michaela Watkins (In a World…), Arian Moayed (Spider-Man: No Way Home), Owen Teague (It), Amber Tamblyn (The Ring), David Cross (Arrested Development), and Zach Cherry (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings). Each of their performances feels authentic, and their chemistry faithful and natural. The movie centers around Beth, a previously published writer with a memoir that did "fairly well" in its initial printing. However, it has been years since that publication and now she is struggling with her first book of fiction. When she overhears her husband, Don (Menzies), tell his brother-in-law (Moayed) something in confidence, she begins to question everyone and everything. Holofcener shows the audience various types of relationships and the communication problems that can arise within each of them. Each scene, no matter how short or which character the camera is focused on, tackles the theme of white lies versus honesty. Everyone lies, but is the intention more important than the words? Louis-Dreyfus is amazing as Beth. She portrays the main character with so much heart. Beth is down-to-earth, loveable, and sympathetic. She is a flawed character and someone that either people know or can relate to personally. Other standout performances include Menzies as Beth's husband Don, and Teague as their son Eliot. Much like its main character, the film does have its weaknesses. The pacing does not drag; however, there are a handful of moments within the latter half of the movie which feel like possible endings. Meanwhile, the actual conclusion is a bit predictable. Some of the supporting character's conflicts lack tension, despite there being plenty of space for it. Audiences may leave the theater with questions to ponder but not with a sense of epiphany. The film appears to celebrate mediocrity and complacency. Each of the characters are okay at their jobs but don't care to challenge themselves any further. When characters do try new things and fall on their faces, the theme is dropped into their laps. Characters lie to support their loved ones, only to make faces behind their backs. This feels realistic but also begs the question, what is this trying to teach us? This slice-of-life film won't be for everyone. Those looking for something action-packed may find this movie to be frustratingly slow. However, those who love shows like Seinfeld will find the subtle humor and relatability of "You Hurt My Feelings" to be a breath of fresh air. While creatives will especially be able to connect with the main character's plight, the underlying messages are ones which everyone can understand: what people do to support the ones they love, the murky waters of honesty, and one's need for approval.
![No Hard Feelings [Includes Digital Copy]](http://prodimage.images-bn.com/pimages/0043396631151_p0_v2_s90x140.jpg "No Hard Feelings [Includes Digital Copy]")
