Jay Duplass's latest film, 'See You When I See You,' premiered at Sundance 2026, adapting comedian Adam Cayton-Holland's memoir about his sister's suicide. The film follows Aaron (Cooper Raiff), a stand-up comedian grappling with guilt and grief after his sister Leah's death, while neglecting his surviving sister Emily (Lucy Boynton) and parents Robert (David Duchovny) and Page (Hope Davis), who may have breast cancer. Aaron's coping mechanisms include drinking, moping, and stalking his ex-girlfriend Camila (Ariela Barer).
The movie exemplifies Sundance's 'traumedy' genre, where humour is used to process tragedy, though it lacks the visual flair of earlier Duplass brothers' work. Cinematographer Jim Frohna's TV-style imagery and the film's low-budget feel detract from its emotional impact. Despite strong performances, particularly from Raiff, the narrative feels generic, relying on familiar beats of grief and recovery.
Duplass, known for his emotionally attuned characters in mumblecore films, brings maturity to the material, but the script's flashbacks to Leah's death night feel stagy. The film's title, originally 'Tragedy Plus Time,' reflects the comedic equation, yet the movie struggles to balance humour and pathos effectively. With the indie market shrinking, 'See You When I See You' may struggle to find an audience, despite its earnest intentions.
