The Meddler Review
RYAN: This is a new indie starring Susan Sarandon as, indeed, a meddler. She’s, like, a New York, overbearing nosey mother who truly cares about her daughter played by Rose Byrne and they have a phenomenal on screen chemistry. But even on her own, Susan has chemistry with this role! The amount of language she gets in so quickly, you’d think this was an Aaron Sorkin script. I could have watched this character monologue for the whole film and been perfectly content. This character is delish for her.
CHUCK: I agree. It’s the role of a lifetime. If there’s buzz, you could see her nominated for this. It’s not overly complex but it turns out to be fragile, nuanced and also very strong. We all know mothers like this – the kind who just walks into your apartment or worries about you after not hearing from you for one night.
RYAN: Totally. She’s very real. And to know Susan, she’s nothing like this character, so to take on the role so boldly is an achievement. This is great acting. She embodies it – it’s first delightful watching Susan Sarandon in the role but then you lose her in it. Amazing.
CHUCK: Absolutely. She’s such a powerful dramatic actress but I laughed more than anything else while watching this. And it’s not farce or broad comedy. Much of it is subtle and smart.
RYAN: I like you mentioned fragility. For a while I was wondering whether she was stable or having a break with reality, depressed – would there be a big, painful revelation but no – this character is authentically a caring, deeply concerned woman. She’s unaware of how annoying she is but her heart is in the right place.
CHUCK: I think a lot of us would love to have a mom like this; loving without strings attached. She is generous and giving. It is interesting, though, that there are still reasons behind the relationships she builds, whether to fill a void or get closer to her daughter; which brings us to JK Simmons who pops up and it’s such a sweet role, we don’t often see him in.
RYAN: This film is a showcase for her but can also be looked at like an ensemble because there is Lucy Punch…
CHUCK: Cicely Strong, tons of comedic players…
RYAN: So funny. They bring subtle energy that keeps it light. I’d like to see Lucy in every movie. It’s a unique story. And there’s just as much delight and escapism in this as in the big blockbusters we’re getting inundated with lately.
CHUCK: This movie is like a Spring breeze – wonderful and original, comfy.
RYAN: And still cinematic.
CHUCK: And this is the same writer/director as Seeking a Friend for the End of the World which I liked more than you.
RYAN: LA is like a character in this. The Grove.
CHUCK: Who knew there are condos there?
RYAN: It’s an unlikely comedy. It is refreshing. So many actresses are turing to TV for great roles and then there is this one that came along for Susan and it’s wonderful.
