SCREENING FROM FRIDAY JULY 3rd

Spanish comedy The People Upstairs (2020) receives the latest in a line of international adaptations, and its first in English, courtesy of co-writers Rashida Jones and Will McCormack (Celeste And Jesse Forever, 2012).

Joe (Seth Rogen) arrives home only to be surprised with the unwelcome news that wife Angela (Olivia Wilde) has invited new neighbours Piña (Penélope Cruz) and Hawk (Edward Norton) to dinner. The ensuing argument continues after their guests’ arrival but is halted by the neighbours’ unexpected revelation.

Director Wilde navigates the subsequent emotional rollercoaster with skill in this very funny, moving, and always credible portrayal of a struggling marriage.

Notes by Kevin Coyne