Film Reviews

Jeff Who Lives at Home

• Rating:
• Director: Jay Duplass
• Starring: ed helms
• Details: US/82mins 15A

A low key family drama with moments of genuine humour and comedy, Jeff Who Lives at Home also boasts some superb performances from its leads. This is really something different for both Segel and Helms, and they're equally impressive.
Segel is the titular Jeff, a sheltered sort who still lives at home with his aul' one (well, the still aesthetically pleasing Sarandon). He's given somewhat of a purpose when his brother Pat (Helms) suspects his other half (Greer) of having relations with a man that isn't him, and enlists Jeff to help Dog the Bounty Hunter her ass.
Sitcom star and accomplished scripter in his own right, Segel has a couple of reflex settings. Mostly sweet, he can sometimes veer into pervy territory - check his work in Knocked Up and Freaks and Geeks - and when he does so he's often very funny. Here he's given a well-rounded and written character with depth, as normal family dynamics are explored organically and with care. The relationships are what drives this film forward and they feel real, even within the heightened, somewhat farfetched turns of the plot.
It's obviously no coincidence that the two directors, Jay and Mark Duplass are siblings; the duo have explored issues involving kin before in the similarly offbeat Cyrus, and there directed Jonah Hill to his first impressive dramatic performance. It's safe to say if you enjoyed that film, you'll find plenty here also to float your boat.
An engaging, well-written and wonderfully acted drama with deft moments of comedy.