Review: Jay Duplass’ Uneven Tragicomedy, “See You When I See You”
“See You When I See You,” directed by Jay Duplass, explores themes of grief and personal recovery in the wake of tragedy. This tragicomedy centers on Aaron, played by Cooper Raiff, who navigates the fallout from his sister Leah’s suicide. The film premiered at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival and is currently seeking U.S. distribution.
Overview of the Plot
The narrative unfolds as Aaron, a witty young man with a tendency for humor to mask his sadness, faces crucial family dynamics following Leah’s death. His older sister, Emily (Lucy Boynton), is pragmatic, while their parents, Paige (Hope Davis) and Robert (David Duchovny), navigate their individual approaches to grief.
Character Dynamics and Development
- Aaron: A budding comedy writer grappling with excess alcohol consumption and his sister’s loss.
- Emily: The type-A sister advocating for order amidst chaos, often clashing with more emotionally unstable family members.
- Paige: The mother who avoids confronting her own health issues while grappling with Leah’s death.
- Robert: The father who, despite being a lawyer, makes openly unprofessional remarks regarding the tragedy during client discussions.
The family dynamic reveals a mix of privilege and dysfunction, as each character exhibits avoidant behavior after the tragedy. Scenes reflecting their struggles are both poignant and relatable.
Therapeutic Journey
Aaron’s path to healing gains depth as he attempts to reconnect with Camila (Ariela Barer), a woman he ghosted following Leah’s death. Throughout the film, Aaron’s attempts to engage in therapy become pivotal. The director spends considerable time highlighting Aaron’s therapy sessions, introducing viewers to EMDR therapy techniques that deepen the exploration of his trauma.
Film Techniques and Style
The film employs whimsical memory sequences, reminiscent of films by Michel Gondry, to illustrate Aaron’s interactions with Leah in a dreamlike fashion. These motifs serve to highlight his unresolved questions and emotional turmoil.
Conclusion
While “See You When I See You” adheres to familiar narrative structures found in tragicomedy, its handling of grief is both earnest and unique. The blend of humor and heartfelt moments creates a solid viewing experience, even with the film’s predictable arcs.
The overall reception of the film leans on its heartfelt depiction of young adulthood’s challenges, making it a notable entry in the indie film landscape. Despite its flaws, Duplass’s directorial touch facilitates a connection with the audience, leaving a resonant emotional impact.
