Jump to the good stuff: The Story | Some Thoughts | The Final Verdict
The Story:
Miss You, Love You is a drama about Diane (Allison Janney), a woman planning her husband’s funeral on her own because her son, Tyler, can’t be there. To help Diane, Tyler sends his assistant, Jamie (Andrew Rannells). As Diane and Jamie become acquainted, the true nature of Jamie and Tyler’s relationship comes to light and the drama begins.
Some Thoughts:
Although the premise for Miss You, Love You is a bit odd, Janney and Rannells make it work. Most of the kudos for that goes to Rannells, who plays Jamie as a dedicated assistant who lives for his job. He goes head-to-head with Janney, whose portrayal of a heartbroken and bitter widow is done to perfection. Watching Diane take her pent-up anger and pain out on Jamie is quite entertaining. And since the writing, pacing, and direction are all good, I would have been okay if that had been the entire film.
I can’t get into the nitty gritty of the plot without spoilers, but the gradual spilling of information between Jamie and Diane makes for some interesting drama. There are also some amusing minor characters who come and go, giving some variation to the story.
While both actors are at the top of their game, the limit of Rannells’ acting abilities is visible. There are some moments near the end when he doesn’t quite reach to the emotional depth that he should, but he comes damn close. And if he wasn’t working with Janney, it may not have been as obvious.
The Final Verdict:
Miss You, Love You isn’t the best comic drama I’ve seen, but it’s enjoyable all the same. If you’re in the mood for a few chuckles, it’s worth a look.