People Places Things

I think my favorite film this past year that went under the radar was People Places Things.

Jemaine Clement stars as Will, a graphic novelist who teaches art design at a local college. At the birthday party of his five year old twin daughters, he goes to his bedroom and walks in on his wife Charlie, Stephanie Allyne, having an affair. Cut to a year later. Will, now single, is living in a smaller place and only allowed to see his daughter on weekends, Will's life is in shambles. News that his ex is getting remarried doesn't help matters. One of his students, Kat, Jessica Williams, thinks that he might be a perfect fit for her single mom Diane, Regina Hall. Not sure if he is ready to date again, Will reluctantly accepts the invite. The date is a disaster. He thinks she's a snob. She thinks his work isn't art. But after a second chance meeting, the two seem to hit it off. Will wants to get serious with her, but doesn't know if he still has feelings for Charlie.

I loved this movie. I related to it so much. I went through something similar in my life. Writer/director James C. Strouse has this kind of fly on the wall style. In a small film like this, the storyline can come off as stagey, but Strouse makes it feel real. He has said that this is based on things that have happened to him, and it shows.

The cast is really good, especially Clement. Part of The Flight Of The Conchords duo, Clement has mostly done comedy. And even though this is a comedic film, it really gives him a showcase for his dramatic chops as well. There's one scene where a glum Clement looks into a mirror and forces a smile on his face before facing his kids. Nothing is said, but it's really powerful. I know I have been there. I also enjoyed Aundrea and Gia Gadsby as his twins. A lot of times, child actors just come off as cute instead of acting, but these two girls are very winning in their parts. Their scenes with Clement reminded me a lot of my relationship with my daughter.

People Places Things is one of the best films of 2015. I loved this movie.

It's available on dvd and is streaming on Netflix.