It’s been a while since Academy Award Winning actress Jennifer Lawrence has graced our screens. For a person known for her comedic timing in her interviews and her ability to be the normal girl next door, a comedy seems like the perfect choice to be her return to the big screen. Not only is it great to see Lawrence back doing what she does best. But also, this film is a nostalgic trip down memory lane to the R-Rated Comedies that graced the screens in the 2000s. And it’s a pleasure to see them back in Gene Stupnitsky‘s latest film, “No Hard Feelings.”
“No Hard Feelings” focuses on Maddy (Jennifer Lawrence,) who starts the film by losing her car as she hasn’t paid her taxes. This situation makes her current job as an Uber driver non-existent. As this was her primary source of income, she needed to think of a get-rich-quick scheme to make ends meet. She stumbles across an ad where some wealthy parents want to bring their awkward nineteen-year-old, Percy (Andrew Barth Feldman), out of his shell by ‘dating’ him. In exchange, she will get a fancy car and be able to resume her job. Sounds like a good idea — right? That’s until the boy starts to catch feelings, and Maddy must reevaluate her decision and think if the car is worth destroying a boy’s self-esteem.
Jennifer Lawrence Showcases Her Excellent Comedic Chops
A common problem that comes from comedy films, as of late, is that all the best moments are spoiled in the trailer. That is still the case with “No Hard Feelings.” A lot of the big set pieces, such as Maddy meeting Percy for the first time or the scene with them skinny dipping, were shown in the trailer. However, as the trailers did not offer many adult themes in this movie, they are a surprise. Most of the adult themes come from Lawrence’s character. She is electrifying to watch on screen. It reminds everyone how good of an actress she is. Her portrayal of the character is very natural. Hopefully, it will open up more opportunities to pursue more comedic roles in her career.
An Uproarious Throwback Rauncy Comedy
Starring alongside Lawrence is newcomer Andrew Barth Feldman, and he takes to comedy very well. Being in scenes with Lawrence when she is stealing the show is very difficult. But Feldman often takes the scene from her. We see this happening when he sings “Maneater.” In that scene, he showcases his great singing and piano skills — taking the audience out of the comedy genre. Overall, the film is an enjoyable watch and is the perfect summer comedy. It reminds the audience that Lawrence is a charismatic presence on screen. Her natural comedic timing is a joy to behold on-screen.
Currently, “No Hard Feelings” is only available to watch in theaters.