Jean of the Joneses

Jean of the Joneses is a 2016 comedy-drama film that tells the story of a young woman named Jean, played by Taylor Paige. Jean is a struggling writer living in Brooklyn, New York, who is dealing with a serious case of writer's block. She has been stuck on her first book for years and is in desperate need of inspiration. When her estranged grandfather dies unexpectedly, Jean's dysfunctional family comes together to mourn the loss. However, the events that follow uncover long-simmering tensions and secrets that have been kept hidden for years.

The movie opens with Jean waking up in her bed to find her one-night stand, an attractive young man named Ray, played by François Arnaud, gone. As she prepares for a family dinner, she receives a call from her mother, who informs her of her grandfather's passing. Jean is reluctant to attend the dinner, but she goes anyway. At the dinner table, tensions arise between Jean and her mother, played by Gloria Reuben, as well as her aunts, played by Sherri Shepherd and Erica Ash. The women bicker and argue, but things take a dramatic turn when one of them accuses Jean's grandfather of being unfaithful.

As the family members go through their grandfather's belongings, they uncover a cache of love letters that reveal he had been involved with several women over the years, and that one of them had given birth to a daughter. The revelation sets the family on a chaotic and comedic journey of self-discovery, as each woman grapples with her own past and present issues.

Jean struggles with her writing and her own romantic prospects, while also grappling with the possibility of her grandfather being involved with a woman who may or may not be her father. Throughout the movie, the women navigate through their own personal baggage while dealing with their grief over the loss of their patriarch. Family secrets come to light, and the women must confront their own issues of abandonment, infidelity, and self-worth.

Despite the heavy subject matter, Jean of the Joneses is a funny and relatable film that presents a fresh portrayal of a multi-generational African-American family. Writer and director Stella Meghie's deft touch makes sure not to condescend to either the audience or the characters, resulting in a smart and engaging film that honors the humanity and complexities of each character.

Anna Hopkins shines in the lead role of Jean as she effortlessly conveys the character's layers of vulnerability, strength, and wit. Gloria Reuben, Sherri Shepherd, and Erica Ash are equally impressive as Jean's aunts, bringing humor, heart, and depth to their respective characters. Francois Arnaud's portrayal of Ray brings a sense of lightheartedness to an otherwise emotionally charged film.

Meghie's writing shines throughout the film, providing plenty of laugh-out-loud moments, while also delving into deeper themes of family secrets, love, friendship, and growing up. The film's excellent soundtrack also adds another layer of meaning to the movie, giving voice to the characters in a way that is both organic and contemporary.

Overall, Jean of the Joneses is a witty, engaging, and touching film with an impressive cast that delivers sharp and relatable performances across the board. It is the perfect example of a family drama that balances humor and pathos with empathy and authenticity, making it a must-see for anyone who has ever struggled to make sense of their own family history.