Synopsis

On the brink of losing her childhood home, a desperate woman Maddie (Jennifer Lawrence) agrees to date a wealthy couple’s introverted and awkward 19-year-old son Percy (Andrew Barth Feldman). However, he proves to be more of a challenge than she expected, and time is running out before she loses it all. As they navigate the complexities of their arrangement, expected and unexpected feelings start to emerge, further complicating the precarious situation and leaving her torn between love and the looming threat of losing her cherished home.

Nothing’s Right I’m Torn

The film’s premise echoes familiar themes in romantic comedies—a person paid to date or accompany another. They begin to genuinely like each other. Only for one to discover that their connection was merely part of a bet or payment for something else. They eventually confess their true feelings, and forgiveness ensues. However, let’s address the elephant in the room right away. With the significant age difference, both mentally and physically, between the main characters “No Hard Feelings” flirts between being creepy and charming. And just like Natalie Imbruglia eloquently put, Nothing’s Right I’m torn.

This is How I Feel 

I genuinely wanted to like this film, and for the most part, I think I did. However, I can’t help but feel that the entire film is a compliment sandwich. If you’re not familiar with the concept, a compliment sandwich begins with praise, followed by a criticism or a challenging question, and ends with more praise.

So, why does “No Hard Feelings” remind me of a compliment sandwich? Well, it boasts an incredible cast, led by the Oscar-winning actress Jennifer Lawrence, who is undoubtedly an acting powerhouse. However, the film delivers a formulaic storyline that tiptoes into, and could be deemed, a narrative involving grooming. This is particularly evident if roles were reversed, compounded by lackluster dialogue.

Yet, because it’s Jennifer Lawrence – beautiful, charming, talented, and a diverse acting talent showcased through her comedic chops in this film – it manages to make you overlook the underlying premise. The film tries to convince you that it’s a charming coming-of-age comedy, successfully diverting attention from the potentially problematic elements.

I’m Cold and I am Shamed, Lying Naked on the Floor

Don’t be alarmed by the title; I am not lying naked on the floor while typing this. However, I may be cold, and I can’t confirm or deny if I am feeling any shame. With that cleared up, I can confirm that there are a few explicit scenes in this film. One scene, in particular, caught me completely off guard and had me laughing hysterically. This is one aspect of the film that is done fairly well.

I say “fairly well” because, depending on your sense of humour, there are numerous laugh-out-loud moments and physical comedy bits that will either leave you in stitches or have you cringing or both. Personally, I enjoy a good raunchy comedy and found myself laughing through the majority of the bits. However, some comedic moments just didn’t quite stick the landing.

Illusion Never Changed, Into Something Real

“No Hard Feelings” successfully sheds the illusion of being just a raunchy comedy and, at times, transforms into something real. This transformation is fueled not only by Jennifer Lawrence’s performance but also by the talents of Andrew Barth Feldman.

 Lawrence showcases her ability to portray a character who. On the surface, appears to have a commitment issue that most wouldn’t think twice about. However, these commitment issues run deeper than she is willing to admit, shrouded in fear of rejection and dismissal. Constantly navigating life with her guard up. She avoids letting too many people get too close, especially those from out of town. Unsurprisingly, her performance is stellar, given her status as an Oscar-winning actor. What proves surprising, however, is her adeptness in comedic timing, especially in the realm of physical comedy throughout the film. This leaves me eager to see her explore more straight-up comedies in the future.

Not acquainted with Feldman’s work, I found his outstanding comedy talent, coupled with his musical and dramatic skills, pleasantly surprising. Feldman’s portrayal of a sweet nineteen-year-old kid, whose helicopter parents never allow him to fully experience life due to past bullying trauma and other factors that make him afraid to not only make friends but also mistakes, is brilliant. Yet, he is a romantic at heart, clinging onto the old ways of courtship, which I find relatable and believe many others will too.

I’m Wide Awake and I Can See the Perfect Sky is Torn

I am well aware that the overall story of this film could be considered controversial at best, depending on one’s definition of grooming. However, I couldn’t stop myself from enjoying this film. Now, “No Hard Feelings” isn’t for everyone, but if you appreciate a good raunchy comedy infused with a coming-of-age film, featuring heartfelt moments and a wildly explicit night beach sequence that will leave you gobsmacked and laughing hysterically at the same time, then “No Hard Feelings” is worth a watch.