By Andrea K. Hammer
Distinctive films such as The Meddler (written and directed by Lorene Scafaria) strike the perfect balance between humor and drama. With a title initially suggesting weightiness on the latter, a down-to-earth cast of characters ensures that laughter lightens even the most intense moments.
Comedy-Drama Based on Screenwriter-Director’s True Story
Drawn from Lorene Scafaria‘s true story, The Meddler focuses on overbearing mother Marnie (Susan Sarandon) who moves near her screenwriter daughter Lori (Rose Byrne) in Los Angeles. With a heavy New York accent and say-exactly-what’s-on-the-mind-style, the actress stretches her range with impeccable delivery in this role. Beyond capturing these mannerisms and the perfect pitch of an overly invested relative, Susan Sarandon also accurately reflects the misdirected energy and experiences of a recent widow trying to rebuild her life.
Memorable Scenes With Laughter Balancing Intense Moments
As the equally hurting-from-loss daughter Lori, Rose Byrne effectively conveys her desire to set boundaries. To avoid her mother’s constant interference and unexpected appearances at her apartment, the actress reveals this character’s insistence on running her own life. Some of the most memorable scenes in this comedy-drama involve Rose Byrne speaking openly about her grief before laughing uncontrollably with her mother after a crisis is resolved.
Gifted, Low-Key Supporting Actor Unintentionally Claims the Spotlight
Playing Marnie’s unexpected love interest, Academy Award winner J.K. Simmons infuses his motorcycle-riding ex-cop character Zipper with effortless humor and understated charm. Along with quiet understanding, smiling eyes and the perfectly timed delivery of hysterically written lines, the low-key J.K. Simmons unintentionally claims central-star status as an authentic natural. Reflecting similar reactions after watching his previous roles in La La Land and Sailboat, viewers are left wanting to see more than these all-too-brief appearances.
Special Features Enhance Highly Enjoyable Film Experience
Special features, including “The Making of The Meddler” and “The Real Marnie” enhance this highly enjoyable film experience. The amusing conversation with screenwriter Lorene Scafaria and her mother, Gail, pays tribute to the source of inspiration for The Meddler. The first special feature also provides an insider’s understanding of the filmmaking process, with observations that are interesting and invaluable.