On the brink of losing her home, Maddie finds an intriguing job listing: helicopter parents looking for someone to bring their introverted 19-year-old son out of his shell before college. She has one summer to make him a man or die trying.
Maddie (Jennifer Lawrence) struggles to keep her house in Montauk, New York, where the wealthy flock during the summer. After losing her car, she discovers an opportunity to “date” a socially awkward guy before he heads to college in the fall in exchange for a free car. She jumps at the chance, and shenanigans ensue.
Comedies have disappeared within the last few years, but “No Hard Feelings” is solid. Most people know that Jennifer Lawrence is funny, but this is the first comedy film she has ever been in, having taken more dramatic roles with some comedic moments or dialogue thrown in. She’s a natural in this role, and it’s nice to have the actress back on the big screen. She is the definite stand-out of the film.
Percy (Andrew Barth Feldman) is awkward, naïve, and sweet. Maddie herself is surprised to grow a meaningful connection with him, though she is lying about her interest in him. Through his interactions with Maddie, he can finally stand up for himself. Maddie also learns that she has some growing up to do herself. I was also impressed by Feldman here as he held his own against Lawrence.
The first two-thirds of this film is consistently funny, while the third act deals with the ramifications of the lie being exposed. Unfortunately, the film’s trailers reveal most of the funny moments. And while there is some raunchiness, it is pretty tame, especially compared to “Joy Ride,” which comes out in a few weeks.
Overall, “No Hard Feelings” is a solid comedy. It won’t blow your socks off but will likely make you laugh. Lawrence and Feldman are consistently funny, and that’s all you need in a movie like this.
In Theaters Friday, June 23rd
