The Trouble with Bliss

The Trouble with Bliss is a 2011 comedy-drama film directed by Michael Knowles and starring Michael C. Hall, Peter Fonda, and Lucy Liu. The film revolves around Morris Bliss (Hall), a 35-year-old man who is stuck in a rut and struggling with his personal and professional life. Morris lives in New York City with his father, Seymour (Fonda), and spends his days working as a grocery store clerk and his nights seducing women who he picks up at bars.

The film opens with Morris attending a high school reunion where he runs into his former high school teacher, Mr. Willard (Brad William Henke), who he had a crush on. Morris begins to romanticize his past and longs for the simplicity of his teenage years.

Morris' mundane existence is turned upside down when he meets 18-year-old Stephanie Jouseski (Brie Larson), the daughter of one of his former classmates. Morris becomes infatuated with Stephanie and begins to pursue her, even though she is only a teenager. Morris sees Stephanie as a way to relive his youth and escape his unsatisfying adulthood.

Meanwhile, Morris' relationship with his father Seymour is strained. Seymour is a washed-up writer who spends his days drinking and reminiscing about his own past successes. Seymour resents Morris for his lack of ambition and for wasting his potential.

Morris' life becomes even more complicated when he takes a job house-sitting for a wealthy couple, Andrea (Liu) and Peter Van Arden (Chris Messina), who are having marital problems. Morris becomes involved in the Van Arden's marital drama and his relationship with Andrea becomes increasingly inappropriate.

The Trouble with Bliss is a character-driven film that explores themes such as aging, regret, and redemption. Michael C. Hall gives a strong performance as Morris Bliss, a man who is searching for meaning and purpose in his life. Peter Fonda is also excellent as Morris' estranged father, Seymour, a man who is struggling to come to terms with his own failures. Lucy Liu brings depth and complexity to her role as Andrea Van Arden, a woman who is trapped in a loveless marriage and looking for a way out.

The film is set in New York City and features an eclectic cast of characters, including Morris' co-worker, NJ (Bradley Whitford), who offers Morris questionable advice on women, and Morris' ex-girlfriend, Lisa (Sarah Shahi), who he still has feelings for.

The Trouble with Bliss is a poignant and humorous film that examines the complexities of life and relationships. The film is at times bittersweet and at other times hilarious, as Morris navigates the ups and downs of his life. The film's strong performances, witty writing, and heartfelt message make it a must-see for fans of character-driven dramas.