Review of Jeff, Who Lives at Home (2012) by Myffubs — 07 Jun 2012

Jeff, who Lives at Home is a low-key comedy that often pays off in unexpected ways. Jason Segel stars as the titular, Signs-obsessed pothead who ventures out into the world with a trivial purpose before taking several detours along the way.

The film dutifully follows. Jeff actively looks for messages, perhaps from a higher power, to derive some meaning from his existence. Early on he gets a call from a stranger asking for Kevin, then decides to follow a youth with the name Kevin on his jersey.

Etc, etc. Meanwhile Jeff's presumably more responsible but less fun-loving brother Pat (Helms) and his girlfriend Linda (Greer) are unable to communicate. Linda thinks their relationship needs work, while Pat thinks it needs a Porsche.

Their mother (Sarandon) wants Jeff to run an errand and ponders a secret admirer at work. Jeff occasionally runs into Pat and helps him follow Linda, who may or may not be carrying on an affair. This is basically what happens, which is to say, not very much.

Still the movie manages to entertain, and provides its narrative threads with relatively satisfying conclusions. Save, of course, the too-convenient climax. The performances range from good to great. Segel is amiable, charming in a role that could quickly become agitating.

Helms proves similarly memorable, while both Greer and Sarandon turn in oddly touching performances. The film excels at subtly humorous moments stemming from the loosely defined but recognizably human characters.

Its directors and writers, the brothers Duplass, are admirable in their unwillingness to adhere to standard comedic and dramatic conventions. They utilize their signature lo-to-no-fi approach with grace; the shaky handheld camera and unnecessary zooms prove a small price to pay.

Those who are curious should indeed see this film. Though neither the best of the year nor significantly groundbreaking, it is both enjoyable and genuine, exceedingly rare traits among modern releases.