Somehow, Jay Duplass’s directing journey hit a pause for a few years. He explored different creative paths. When he returned to direct again, he faced pandemic challenges and industry strikes. Finally, after 13 years, he directed the well-received film The Baltimorons. Now, he’s back with a new dramedy, See You When I See You, which just premiered at Sundance.
What’s special about this film? For the first time, Duplass didn’t write the script. Instead, it was penned by Adam Cayton-Holland, a new screenwriter and stand-up comic. His script is based on his memoir, Tragedy Plus Time: A Tragi-Comic Memoir, which dives into his experience with PTSD after losing his sister to suicide. Duplass collaborated with producers Kumail Nanjiani and Emily Gordon, known for turning real trauma into compelling stories, like their Oscar-nominated film The Big Sick.
Blending comedy and tragedy is a tough job, but Duplass pulls it off. The story centers on Aaron Whistler, played by Cooper Raiff. Aaron is struggling with mental health issues, haunted by his sister Leah’s tragic death. This loss affects all his relationships—his family, including his parents and girlfriend, and even his comedy podcast work.
The Whistler family isn’t coping well with their grief. Each member faces their struggles. Aaron’s sister is in denial, their dad tries to keep everything normal while dealing with his wife’s health secret, and Aaron’s own relationship with his girlfriend hangs by a thread.
At its core, this film is about family dynamics grappling with loss. It’s funny, yet deeply moving. Duplass captures this complex family experience, inviting us to walk alongside them through their highs and lows.
The performances add depth to the narrative. Raiff’s portrayal of Aaron is raw and authentic. David Duchovny, as the father, balances humor with the weight of his family’s troubles. The female cast members, like Hope Davis, Lucy Boynton, and Kaitlyn Dever, bring nuance to their roles. Dever’s character, though deceased, echoes throughout the story, shown through creative visual effects that make her presence felt without traditional flashbacks.
Ultimately, the film is about a family struggling for closure. Cayton-Holland’s smart writing, an excellent cast, and Duplass’s sensitive direction make this journey worthwhile.
For film lovers, the depth of emotion combined with humor creates a compelling viewing experience that reflects real-life challenges.
Title: See You When I See You
Festival: Sundance (Premieres)
Director: Jay Duplass
Screenwriter: Adam Cayton-Holland
Cast: Cooper Raiff, David Duchovny, Kaitlyn Dever, Hope Davis, Lucy Boynton, Ariela Barer
Running Time: 1 hr 42 mins
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