Writer, director, producer, and star Daniel Levy’s feature film debut, “Good Grief,” is a remarkable departure from his comedic work in “Schitt’s Creek.” This introspective film delves into themes of love, loss, and grief, drawing from Levy’s personal experiences to create a poignant and complex exploration. While the film may occasionally struggle with tonal inconsistency, its true focus lies in the friendships that anchor the story. Set against the backdrop of a life-altering trip to Paris, “Good Grief” captures the essence of friendship’s complications and significance.
The film opens at a holiday party in a spacious London apartment, paying homage to writer Richard Curtis, one of Levy’s inspirations. The protagonist, Marc (played by Levy), is an artist living in the shadow of his successful filmmaker husband, Oliver (Luke Evans). The gathering introduces Marc’s vibrant friends, Sophie (Ruth Negga) and Thomas (Himesh Patel), while establishing the couple’s seemingly blissful life. However, tragedy strikes as Oliver dies in a head-on collision, sending Marc into a whirlwind of grief.
The grieving process goes beyond Oliver’s emotional funeral, extending into the following year. Sophie and Thomas encourage Marc to move forward, leading him to finally open the card Oliver left him. Its contents unravel a series of complications, including the revelation of an undisclosed Parisian apartment and the existence of Oliver’s open marriage. Determined to uncover the truth behind Oliver’s secrets, Marc invites his friends to join him on a trip to Paris.
As the trio embarks on their adventure, Marc privately searches for answers while his friends unknowingly become entangled in the web of secrets left by Oliver. Levy’s script highlights the boiling points each character faces, exposing personal truths and showcasing the depth of their connection. The filmmaker delicately balances the film’s focus on grief and its effects on friendship, allowing it to become a central element without overshadowing the story’s other facets.
Levy’s talent for directing shines through in the performances he elicits from the cast. Negga delivers a sensational portrayal of the spirited Sophie, while Patel impressively portrays the frenzied emotions experienced by his character. Levy himself takes a slightly subdued approach as Marc, weighed down by grief and the complexities of Oliver’s actions in death. The supporting cast, including Arnaud Valois, Medhi Baki, Emma Corrin, and Kaitlyn Dever, offer nuanced performances that contribute to the overall storytelling.
Paris, beautifully captured by cinematographer Ole Bratt Bireland, serves as an enchanting backdrop for the film. The production design by Alice Normington skillfully brings both the London and Paris apartments to life, while Julian Day’s costumes add a dash of flair. The film’s music score, composed by Rob Simonsen, and the carefully curated soundtrack, featuring songs by Bonnie Raitt, Elton John, and Neil Young, further enhance the emotional resonance of “Good Grief.”
Levy’s debut as a filmmaker shows immense promise, proving that he possesses a multitude of talents. While primarily known for his comedic skills, he adeptly navigates the complexities of grief and friendship in “Good Grief.” Though the film occasionally struggles with tonal consistency and gives minimal attention to the concept of open marriage, it remains a captivating exploration of human connections. As Levy continues to refine his craft, audiences eagerly anticipate his future endeavors.
Overall, “Good Grief” stands as a testament to Levy’s artistic vision and storytelling abilities. Through the lens of grief, the film is a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the transformative nature of loss. Levy’s unique perspective and raw emotional storytelling create an engaging and thought-provoking experience for audiences. As the credits roll, it becomes evident that “Good Grief” marks the beginning of a promising career for Daniel Levy in the realm of filmmaking.
Leave a Reply