Review: Julia Louis-Dreyfus Delivers An Acting Masterclass In Nicole Holofcener’s Excellent ‘You Hurt My Feelings’

Photo from A24

YOU HURT MY FEELINGS (2023)

Julia Louis-Dreyfus and Tobias Menzies put on an acting masterclass in the smart, hilarious, outstanding You Hurt My Feelings from writer/director Nicole Holofcener.

In the film, when Beth (Louis-Dreyfus) overhears her husband Don (Menzies) saying that he doesn’t like her latest book, she begins to spiral and question whether the passionate love the two have shared for decades has all been built on a lie. You Hurt My Feelings is an example of one of my favorite types of films, a “slice of life” movie that is oh so authentic and reflective of modern relationship anxieties portrayed on screen in an honest and approachable way. Louis-Dreyfus is simply phenomenal throughout, her relatability and comedic timing proving why she is one of the best actresses out there today. Equally as convincing and entertaining is Menzies as his character attempts to figure out first what went wrong, and second how to mend the broken fences. Holofcener’s script is one that could have been composed from any number of partner conflicts, but it is elevated by sharp wit and convincing dialogue, displayed within a warm composition that brings you right into the mix.

It can not be understated how perfect of a film this is, one of the year’s best by far. Louis-Dreyfus is a force and, paired with Holofcener, is doing some of the best work of her career. There is a charm to the explored disagreement that is almost comforting, as if to say “see, others are dealing with this, too!” Owen Teague is excellent in his role of the couple’s son Elliott, often holding a mirror up to his parents through his reactions to the good and bad of their relationship as he navigates his own struggles. Michaela Watkins as Beth’s sister an excellent compliment to Louis-Dreyfus, quick with the responses and sweet with her support, though forced to look at her own white lies that she dispenses within her marriage to husband mark, portrayed by the delightful Arian Moayed. Some may argue that not much happens in the film, but the truth is that there is a layered exploration of connection, trust, and love woven throughout the flawless script. 

At this point, I would watch Julia Louis-Dreyfus read the classifieds section of a newspaper. A brilliant film.

You Hurt My Feelings hits theaters Friday.

Rating: 5/5