NR | 1h 42m | Comedy | 2024
Director Chris Cottam’s “The Problem With People” deftly blends sharp humor with heartfelt family drama, creating a story that’s both deeply personal and widely relatable. Central to the narrative is the compelling dynamic between cousins Barry and Ciaran. The film explores generational conflict, reconciliation, and the complexities of familial bonds, all set against the stunning backdrop of rural Ireland.
The story begins when Barry (Paul Reiser), a pragmatic and somewhat neurotic New Yorker, receives an unexpected call from his Irish cousin, Ciaran (Colm Meaney). Years of familial estrangement have kept them apart, but a dying wish from Ciaran’s father, Fergus (Des Keogh), prompts Barry to visit. Barry reluctantly travels to Ireland, where his fast-paced, city-centered mindset clashes with Ciaran’s small-town lifestyle.
The film opens with a moving scene at Fergus’s deathbed, where he reveals regrets about the family’s fractured history. This moment immediately sets the tone for the story, deepening what could have been a simple comedic setup. Barry’s initial awkward encounters with the locals are humorous but fortunately avoid clichés, instead focusing on genuine character-driven moments.
The narrative thrust deals with the developing relationship between Barry and Ciaran. It shifts from initial politeness to mistrust and, eventually, to a reluctant partnership. Reiser’s dry wit pairs rather well with Meaney’s rugged charm, their banter crackling with both humor and an unspoken yearning for connection. A standout moment occurs during a heated argument in a rain-soaked field. The quarrel escalates into a hilariously cathartic mud fight, a scene that feels both absurd and therapeutic.
The film doesn’t shy away from its more somber themes. Through skillfully interwoven flashbacks, we learn how a petty dispute over a stolen sheep escalated into a rift that tore the family apart. These glimpses into the past are brief yet striking; they enrich the present-day story with the long-held grudges and unresolved wounds that shape the characters’ actions.
As the feud between Barry and Ciaran begins to intensify, things get increasingly absurd; livestock are stolen, cars are sabotaged, and a rigging of a local raffle is bungled, to name a few. Yet beneath this comedic chaos lies an exploration of pride and the difficulty of letting go of past ills.
One of the film’s most touching moments comes when Barry opens up to his daughter (Jane Levy), revealing insecurities that have influenced his choices. Levy’s nuanced performance brings a calming presence to the story, offering a guiding light for the more unpredictable characters.
Although the film occasionally shifts in tone, Cottam’s direction helps make these transitions relatively smooth, blending slapstick humor with moments of introspection. The stunning Irish countryside, captured in lush, painterly cinematography, serves as a visual counterpoint to the characters’ flawed humanity.
The supporting cast boosts the narrative, with each bringing a distinct voice. Des Keogh’s portrayal of Fergus, though brief, leaves a strong impression, embodying both regret and hope. Lucianne McEvoy shines as a no-nonsense villager who delivers blunt truths under the guise of casual gossip. These secondary characters mirror Barry and Ciaran’s journey, reinforcing the film’s themes of community, reconciliation, and the cost of long-held grudges.
Barry’s neuroticism and Ciaran’s gruffness are tempered by moments of vulnerability, making them feel multidimensional and real. The humor avoids cheap laughs, focusing instead on wit and subtlety. It doesn’t mock its characters but acknowledges their flaws, drawing viewers in with empathy. It’s through these imperfections that the film finds its heart, delivering a story that is as uplifting as it is relatable.
While “The Problem with People” doesn’t break much new ground, it offers a solid take on family dynamics, bolstered by sharp writing and strong performances. The chemistry between Reiser and Meaney forms the film’s emotional spirit, imbuing even its quieter moments with candid warmth.
For anyone who appreciates stories about reconciliation despite fractured histories, this one is a journey worth taking.
