Written and directed by Lynn Shelton (Humpday), Your Sister’s Sister is a sweet and heartfelt drama that is rooted in reality of modern relationships. With improvised performances by Emily Blunt (The Devil Wears Prada, The Wolfman), Rosemarie DeWitt (Showtime’s United States of Tara) and veteran mumblecore actor/writer/director Mark Duplass.
After an uncomfortable moment at the memorial for his brother, Jack’s best friend, Iris, offers her father’s house on the lake to Jack so he can take some time to clear his head. However, Iris’ sister, Hannah, spoils the plan by also escaping to the cabin after her relationship breaks up. Once Iris makes a surprise appearance, the story goes in complicated direction.
Focusing on only three people throughout the entire film, the story never felt stale and rode a fine line of giving just enough information to understand the characters. It’s amazing how dialogue that has seemingly nothing to do with characters can be the best character development. Although performances by Emily Blunt and Rosemarie Blunt were more polished, they still were able to convey a familiarity with each other and the situation that ringed genuine. Mark Duplass was effortless as Jack and truly shined in the awkward situations. Not only was the dialogue natural, the gestures and the mannerisms also felt comfortable, as if you were watching someone’s life, not just a movie.
The opening scene is by far my favorite and sets the mood for the rest of the film. Mike Birbiglia (comedian, Sleepwalk With Me) delivers a fumbled and vulnerable speech that made me want more of him. I was disappointed when the scene ended just because I really wanted to see more.
Another aspect that I really enjoyed was the cinematography. Even though the action is mostly sitting and talking, it’s kept fresh by the two-shot and lots of close-ups. The wide shots are used only to give a sense of closeness to the characters. I appreciated the lack of shakiness that is really prevalent in these types of films.
Lynn Shelton continues to deliver well thought-out films and as her reputation builds, she’ll attract more attention and perhaps land a bigger budget. Let’s hope that budget goes to marketing and she doesn’t lose her natural flare for bringing a good story to the screen.
Rating:Without a major hook, it’ll likely fly under the radar of most moviegoers, but if you can catch it, it’s enjoyable and hits home (8/10)
Tribeca Film Festival – Your Sister’s Sister
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