Stress Positions Review: If you’re looking for a character around whom to build a film, it’s hard to find someone better suited than John Early. His commitment to playing such roles, as seen in “Search Party,” his recent comedy special “Now More Than Ever,” and his entire body of work, showcases his remarkable talent for injecting just the right amount of absurdity to elevate any project. Although portraying goofy and unhinged characters is often underestimated and can be dismissed as easy or annoying, when executed skillfully, it becomes something truly special. It’s unfortunate that performances with a comedic edge often go undervalued during awards season, despite the abundance of exceptional work waiting for its due recognition. Early’s latest performance is a prime example of this talent.
In “Stress Positions,” Early teams up with writer-director Theda Hammel, who also stars in the film. Premiering at the Sundance Film Festival this year, “Stress Positions” might not have delivered the most striking vision or the sharpest debut feature, but it achieved something perhaps even more impressive: it presented a pandemic-set film that felt authentic rather than cloying. Set in the early days of the pandemic, the film follows a group of millennial New Yorkers who are initially insufferable. Now releasing through Neon, “Stress Positions” may not be as devastatingly satirical as “Do Not Expect Too Much from the End of the World,” but it offers its own unique ways to skewer its characters.
Stress Positions
Comedy
Release Date
January 18, 2024
Director
Theda Hammel
Cast
John Roberts, John Early, Theda Hammel, Amy Zimmer
Runtime
95 minutes
Main Genre
Comedy
Writers
Faheem Ali, Theda Hammel
What Is ‘Stress Positions’ About?
The film is primarily set in a single brownstone in New York, focusing on the chaotic yet privileged life of Terry Goon (Early), who is looking after his nephew Bahlul (Qaher Harhash), recently injured with a broken leg. The contrast between the two characters is stark. Bahlul, a half-Moroccan model, is graceful and introspective, while Terry is a self-centered white man trying to avoid the reality of his impending divorce, still residing in his ex-husband’s house.
Karla (Hammel), a trans woman whose life story was adapted into a successful novel by her ex-girlfriend Vanessa (Amy Zimmer), also plays a significant role. Karla is grappling with her relationship and contemplates ending it, while also feeding Terry’s worst impulses as their quarantine becomes increasingly stressful. The film is filled with angst, capturing the internal struggles of its characters through long, revealing scenes.
Despite the film’s noisy setup and mumblecore-esque scenes, Early delivers a hilariously chaotic performance, including his notable physical comedy. Beneath the surface, the film subtly contrasts the privileged lives of its main characters with the more precarious existence of a Grubhub delivery driver, Ronald (played by co-writer Faheem Ali). While Terry’s frantic behavior is evident, the film’s commentary on the gig economy provides a more grounded perspective on stress.
‘Stress Positions’ Is a Pandemic Movie That Mostly Works
The film contrasts the semi-quarantined characters, who enjoy relative freedom, with the harsh reality outside. While often humorous, it becomes increasingly discomforting as it exposes the characters’ ignorance. Hammel skillfully captures and critiques the characters’ insecurities while also presenting a character study. Despite occasional repetitiveness and diminishing impact, the film manages to surprise and engage.
“Stress Positions” successfully balances specificity about the pandemic with a focus on its characters. A standout moment is Terry’s frantic gratitude for healthcare workers, juxtaposed with his return to self-centered behavior. The film’s claustrophobic feel, driven by its confined settings and the characters’ interactions, adds to its unique charm. It’s a film that, like the disco ball Terry pushes down the stairs early on, combines humor with an oddly mesmerizing and frustrating quality. It’s akin to conversing with loved ones whose egos dominate the conversation, leaving you gasping for air while still finding moments to laugh.
