Director: Lynn Shelton
Cast: Emily Blunt, Mark Duplass, Rosemarie DeWitt
Running time: 90 minutes
Certificate: 15
Synopsis: After a year of grieving for his brother, Jack’s (Duplass) best friend, Iris (Blunt), sends him away for a self-reflection vacation at her father’s forest lodge. On his arrival, Jack unexpectedly meets Iris’ sister Hannah (DeWitt) and after numerous tequila shots, they end up in bed together. However, things become awkward when Iris arrives the next day to keep Jack company…
What would you do if your best friend slept with your sister? This question forms the basis of Lynn Shelton’s YOUR SISTER’S SISTER, which deals with the aftermath of that awkward, boundary-stepping taboo.
Having not seen Shelton’s previous work, I was a little apprehensive as to what I was going to be shown. However, from my reaction to this, I’d be more than willing to see her other films. Shelton delivers a heart-warming, truthful narrative acted out through believable, likeable actors. As always Blunt (THE FIVE-YEAR ENGAGEMENT) is superb as Iris, whose laughter (and tears) are real, supported by the equally brilliant Duplass (GREENBERG) and DeWitt (RACHEL GETTING MARRIED). Considering most of the dialogue is improvised, it’s not static or monotonous (but rather heavy on profanity), making sure the action carries well. Having only three characters on screen for 99% of film time, you would be mistaken to think they become dull or outstay their welcome. It’s much rather the opposite, as you become involved in their difficult situation, which becomes even more tricky after Hannah tells the truth. Make sure you catch the ending – you’ll be surprised by your own reaction, as it’s (secretly) exactly how you’d want it to end.
A funny and honest portrayal of what happens when things become complicated and what happens when the truth is revealed.
YOUR SISTER’S SISTER is released in UK cinemas 29th June
