'Hard Truths' Film Review
Mike Leigh's brilliant track record of bringing tough subject matters to the screen with piercing dramatic substance, along with humorous twists, continues. His new film Hard Truths is an unwavering yet, at times, overwhelming mix of comedy and drama, exploring the dysfunctions of family relationships. While some viewers may find the main character’s unlikable perspective on the world frustrating, I never quite reached that point, as I was swept away by its depth and layered meaning.
As the 81-year-old Leigh puts it, “I interact with the material and discover what the film is through the process of making it,” and that approach is evident in Hard Truths. The characters react and communicate with such natural authenticity that it’s impossible to look away. Whether it’s a family tensely gathered around a dinner table or a husband responding to his manic wife's mental health struggles, every moment feels deeply personal without relying on an overbearing musical score. A major reason for this emotional weight is Marianne Jean-Baptiste’s performance, which is crucial—one of the best I’ve seen this year, if not the best. She brings a depth to her character that makes every interaction feel lived-in and raw.
The film covers so much in such a short amount of time that reflecting on its positives feels like a journey through my own life and relationships. While the film occasionally goes overboard with its characters, it presents people with difficult pasts without explicitly stating or spoon-feeding their histories. It’s up to the viewer to dissect why these individuals are the way they are. Their relationships remain distinct and individualistic throughout the film, and by its final moments, you come to the realization that peoples basic character doesn't change.
Hard Truths has been unfairly snubbed by the Oscars, and somehow, Baptiste’s performance wasn’t nominated. As these award shows become more about the popularity of the product and less about film as an art form, fewer people will be exposed to the beauty of films like this. Splendidly made and gut-wrenching, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better-crafted film in 2024.
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