Femme Filmmakers Festival 2023: SLEEPING WITH OTHER PEOPLE (Leslye Headland)
A relatable and surprising story isn’t easy to come by in the romantic comedy space. Sleeping With Other People, Leslye Headland’s 2015 film, is a bit of an underrated gem that capitalizes on its strengths, while never falling victim to the clichés that threaten to derail.
The film opens with a one-night stand in college between Lainey (Alison Brie) and Jake (Jason Sudeikis). Sudeikis plays him with that dry wit and charm he emulates so well, while Brie portrays Lainey with a vulnerability that endears her. That feeling is kept present throughout the film, even when it wavers into some familiar, dramatized territory.
We then jump twelve years into the future where the two are engaged in other relationships, neither particularly functional. Both are frequently sabotaging their own relationships by being unfaithful and so when the two cross paths again, they decide to execute the age-old rom-com attempt to just be friends and not sleep together.
As their friendship grows, so do their feelings for one another, and Sudeikis and Brie have a wonderful chemistry.
The epic display in the finale, a rom-com staple, is by no means unexpected, but this one – despite its intensity – still felt sweet.
“I don’t even know sixteen guys.”
Sleeping With Other People boasts a sincere narrative approach that renders the characters’ journey effortlessly relatable. Moreover, it is an undeniably comedic gem – I found myself erupting into fits of laughter during several scenes. While this humor eventually takes a backseat, yielding the spotlight to more profound themes, the actors maintain their comedic prowess.
The dialogue offered something varied from a lot of similar films, and while the acting was by far the star of this feature, writer/director Headland’s clear voice is here, guiding us through with a deft hand.
The film’s strength is undoubtedly bolstered by the presence of two of cinema’s most charismatic stars. Their on-screen rapport feels authentic, even amidst the chaos of hilarity and absurdity. For the most part, the movie skillfully navigates the delicate balance between drama and comedy.
Life’s complexities are universally acknowledged, and Sleeping With Other People resonates precisely because it fearlessly confronts these intricacies. It acknowledges that one person’s baggage is seldom comparable to another’s.
The film’s dialogue and character portrayals are not only refreshing but also unapologetically bold.
“I love you for free.”
Sleeping showcases an ensemble of talent in its supporting roles as well, with Adam Scott, Jason Mantzoukas, Amanda Peet, and Natasha Lyonne.
It’s a film that I revisited for the first time since its release and was pleasantly taken by. It features one of my favorite comedy gags which is a scene or conversation going on longer than it should, defying audience expectations of when it will end. It has its issues, most pointedly the third act of the script which doesn’t quite match the rest of the film’s spirit.
Sleeping With Other People aptly captures humor while offering a generous dose of heartfelt moments, presenting us with relationships that show authenticity in all their awkward and beautifully messy dimensions. More Sudeikis and Brie, please.
Sleeping With Other People is being shown at this year’s Femme Filmmakers Festival. For more information click here.
Watch Sleeping With Other People
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